AGM

Officers: President: Tommy Keogh; Chairman: Niall Kavanagh; Vice-Chairman: James O’Reilly; Secretary: Kieran Brosnan; Treasurer: J.P. Cahillane; Hurling Secretary: Damien Lynch; Football Secretary: Vincent Dowling; Committee: Antoinette Prendergast, John O’Reilly, Paddy Fitzpatrick, Catherine Fitzgerald, Willie Farrell, Phil O’Keeffe, Brian Delaney, Joe Daly, Rita Fitzpatrick, Denis Kavanagh, Richard Sides, Damien O’Sullivan, Michael O’Sullivan, Pat McEvoy.

Other notable events

Other notable events for the club in the Millennium year included the following.

Tom Conroy won Laois GAA Footballer of the Year for 1999. Cathal Murphy won the junior footballer award. Colm Byrne won the minor hurling award. Colm Browne was appointed Laois football manager in August. He had already been manager for three years in the early 1990s. Siac, Portarlington, beat St. Peters, (Prison) team 3-12 to 1-11 in the inter firms football final. A reunion of minor players from the 1949 to ’51 era was held in November. Laois GAA was stunned with the news of the death on 1st July of Bill Delaney, Stradbally, one of the greatest footballers produced by Laois.

Club chairman, Niall Kavanagh, announced a plan for the provision of training facilities throughout the town. With other clubs in the town, he announced plans to raise funds for the development of facilities at St. Fintan’s Hospital grounds where games have been played since 1959.

Senior Football

Portlaoise had to play second fiddle to St. Josephs in the final and they failed by 1-13 to 1-8. It was St. Joseph’s ninth title and the first time they beat Portlaoise in a final so the celebrations down Ballyadams way were well deserved. The report described the Saints performance as “classic”. Stephen Kelly was the star of the hour. The Saints led by 0-7 to 0-2 at the break.

Results in the earlier rounds were: Portlaoise 3-11 to Ballyroan 2- 6. Portlaoise 0-11 to Arles-Kilcruise 1-6. Portlaoise 1-10 to The Heath 1-9. (Quarter-final):Portlaoise 0-14 to, Crettyard 0-8. (Semi-final): Portlaoise 2-15 to Emo-Courtwood 2-9. Kevin Fitzpatrick scored 2-4 of the 2-15 total.

Senior Hurling

The “Town” were very unlucky not to take the Castletown scalp in this knock-out tie losing out in a hard-fought dour hour by 0- 8 to 0-7. It was a grim struggle and Portlaoise could consider themselves a little unlucky to lose star centre half back, Niall Rigney, who was issued a harsh red card.

The results in the earlier rounds were: Portlaoise 1-14 to Rathdowney 1-9. Portlaoise 2-13 to Borris-in-Ossory 1-9. Portlaoise 3-11 to Kilcotton 1-5. Portlaoise 1-14 to Ballinakill Gaels 2-10.

Intermediate Hurling

Portlaoise lost the opening round to Trumera but scored victories over Ballyfin by 3-8 to 0-14 and Colt by 1-11 to 0-7 before losing to Mountrath by 3-15 to 4-5. This gave Mountrath a lifeline to the knockout stages and in the play-offs they again came up triumphant beating the Town side on a 0-15 to 1-3 scoreline.

Junior

Portlaoise hurlers conceded a walk-over to Graiguecullen in the “B” championship and in the “B” football the Town bowed out to Crettyard.

Under 21 Hurling

Portlaoise proved too strong for Rathdowney in the final winning by 1-13 to 0-7. Thus the “Town” has the distinction of winning the first Laois GAA title of the new century and new Millennium by capturing this title. It was Portlaoise’s fourth title in the grade and the first for thirteen years.

Under 21 Football

In the final Portlaoise were fully stretched to contain their rivals and a draw was a fair result in the finish.

Scoreline: Portlaoise 1-7 to Wolfe Tones 1-7. Although they led by 1-5 to 0-2 at the interval, their title was saved in the dying seconds only with the help of the woodwork.

Portlaoise were again put to the pin of their collar against game opponents before eventually taking the title by a single point on a score of 1-8 to 1- 7 to earn four titles-in-a-row.

In the semi-final Portlaoise (0-12) drew with Crettyard (2-6) but Crettyard failed to turn up for the replay and Portlaoise got a walk-over into the final. They had earlier beaten Mountmellick/Kilcavan by 4-14 to 0-9.

Minor Hurling

The “Town” lost this exciting tie by the narrowest of margins on a scoreline of: Ballinakill 0-10 to Portlaoise (holders) 1-6. They thus knocked the Town, reigning titleholders, out of the championship.

Portlaoise had earlier been beaten by Camross on a score line of 1-11 to 1-9. Players noted for Portlaoise were John Mulligan, Noel Costello, Alan Kingsley and Tommy Fitzgerald.

Minor Football

The footballers were also reigning champions but, like the hurlers, suffered an early exit from the championship when they were surprisingly defeated by St. John Bosco, a combination of Crettyard, Spink and Ballinakill clubs, by 1-11 to 0-9. The winner’s inter-county panellist, Keith Nolan, was the star of the show shooting 1-5 of a personal tally.

CBS games

South Leinster Juvenile Football Championship final: Portlaoise CBS 3-4 to Good Counsel, New Ross 1-4.

Leinster Colleges Juvenile “A” final: Portlaoise CBS 6-9 to St. Declans, Cabra 0-10.

Under 17 Hurling

U17 hurling final (1999): Portlaoise 4-5 to Ballinakill 1-10.

Under 17 Football

Final: Portlaoise 0-14 to Mountmellick 0-4.

Under 16 Football

Final: Portlaoise 0-12 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-7.

U14 hurling

Portlaoise captured the title once again at the expense of Rathdowney in the final on a scoreline of Portlaoise 3-6 to Rathdowney 1-5.

U14 Football

Final: Portlaoise 0-7, St. Josephs 1-4. (Draw) St. Josephs won the replay 2-8 to 1-8.

U14 football league final (Div 4): Shanahoe 1-10 to Portlaoise 1-3.

U12 ‘A’ Football

Final: Portlaoise 3-5 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-3.

U12 Hurling Final

Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton 2-3 to Portlaoise 1-3.

Leinster U21 football

Final: Meath 0-12 to Laois 0-7.

2000 honours

• Men’s Football – Referee Laois Football Referee of the Year Tony Moran
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-5 v 1- 3 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-12 v 1-7 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football League
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-14 v 0-4 Mountmellick
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-7 v 1-7 Wolf Tones (The Rock) Captain: Eoin Bland
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 3-6 v 1-5 Rathdowney
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1
• Hurling – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-13 v 0-7 Rathdowney Captain: Tomas Mulligan

AGM

The Leinster Express of January 18, 2003 reported that the Kilminchy GAA Club had been reformed. The Acting Chairman was John Hayes, a Tipperary native living in St. Brigid’s Place, whom the article revealed was the driving force behind the venture. The new club boasted of forty juveniles and planned to enter teams in the Laois championships. It was hoped to lease playing pitches from St. Fintan’s Hospital. Mr. Hayes was confirmed as Chairman at the AGM held in the Killeshin Hotel a few weeks later. Among the attendance were Nicky Brennan, Chairman of the Leinster Council (later GAA President), Vice-Chairman of the Leinster Council, Liam O’Neill (later also President of the GAA), and Dick Miller, Chairman of Laois GAA. The club played a few games but fizzled out for lack of support. A minute’s silence was observed for a former Kilminchy stalwart, Paddy Critchley, and a mentor with Portlaoise hurling teams in later years. At the Laois GAA Awards Mark Brophy won the senior football award, Colm Byrne received the U21 football award, Brian Mulligan won the minor football, Pat Fitzpatrick won the Junior “A” award and Tom Fitzgerald won the Junior “B” football award.

Laois beat Armagh in the National Football league semi-final to qualify for a tilt at Tyrone in the final at Croke Park. It was a disappointing day for the O’Moores and they were well beaten by 0-21 to 1-8. Portlaoise players on the final team included Colm Byrne at full-back, Kevin Fitzpatrick at centre-half back, Colm Parkinson at right half forward, Ian Fitzgerald led the attack and Aidan Fennelly came on as a substitute. In the Leinster Senior Football Championship, Laois and Offaly played an exciting draw at O’Moore Park at 1-12 each.

In Rugby, Portlaoise won the Provincial Towns’ Cup for only the second time when beating Navan 23 to 3 in the final at Roscrea on May 4th, the same day as the National Football League Final. The GAA club was well represented in the victory by the presence of Mickey Fennelly at No. 13 and captain, who scored two tries, Alan Kingsley, a star of the future who scored a drop goal, and Donal Rigney, of that great sporting Portlaoise family. The team was guided by that hurling man of steel, Donal’s brother, Des Rigney.

Leinster Glory for Laois

2003 will forever hold a special place in Laois football history as the county captured the Leinster Senior Football Championship for the first time since 1946, while later in the year the minor footballers added All-Ireland glory.

In one of the county's greatest sporting occasions, Laois defeated Kildare by 2-13 to 1-13 in a thrilling Leinster Senior Football Final at Croke Park to end afifty-seven-year provincial famine.

Portlaoise made a huge contribution to the historic breakthrough with Ian Fitzgerald captaining the side. Aidan Fennelly, Colm Byrne, Kevin Fitzpatrick and Colm Parkinson also played major roles throughout the campaign.

Laois Minors Capture Third All-Ireland Title

The county minor footballers captured their third All-Ireland title following an outstanding campaign that showcased tremendous resilience and character.

The journey to All-Ireland success was far from straightforward. Laois lost the Leinster final to Dublin on a 1-11 to 1-9 scoreline, a result that appeared to have ended hopes of silverware.

Portlaoise players Craig Rogers, who captained the side, Peter McNulty and Barry Fitzgerald all featured prominently during the provincial campaign.

The setback only strengthened the team's resolve. Laois regrouped impressively and defeated Tyrone by 0-15 to 1-8 in the All-Ireland quarter-final before producing a superb performance to overcome Kerry by 2-15 to 2-10 in the semi-final.

In the All-Ireland Final Laois completed a remarkable recovery by defeating Dublin on a 2-10 to 1-9 scoreline to secure the county's third All-Ireland Minor Football Championship title.

Portlaoise again played a central role in the success. Craig Rogers captained the side to All-Ireland glory while fellow club players Cahir Healy and Peter McNulty also made major contributions throughout the campaign.

The triumph represented another proud chapter for Portlaoise football and highlighted once more the club's enormous contribution to county football during one of Laois football's greatest periods.

Senior Hurling

Castletown proved to be the bogeymen for Portlaoise hurlers again when dismissing the ‘Town’ challenge in the final by 2- 12 to 1-11. Early goals in either half set the trend of the game which landed a record equalling fifth title in a row for Castletown. Despite the early major setback from Patrick Phelan who found the Portlaoise net in the opening minutes, Portlaoise were still very much in contention at the break when they trailed by a mere point with the second half breeze to follow. However, a Brian Ferns major on the restart helped Castletown to a 2-9 to 1-5 lead by the 37th minute. Portlaoise were playing catch-up for the remainder of the game and despite their stern challenge Castletown held out. The Town were forced to line out without one of their key players, Cyril Duggan, who was injured in the semi-final. This was not the first time, nor was it the last, that Portlaoise hurlers had to play important games without one or more of their stars. Unfortunately it was to become a regular occurrence and one that was to cost Portlaoise hurlers dearly in terms of championships won.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 0-12 to Castletown 0-11. Portlaoise 1- 15 to Tinnahinch 3-7. Portlaoise 1-18 to Kilcotton 2-7. Portlaoise 1-18 to Harps 3-11. Portlaoise 3-10 to

Rathdowney 1-7. Senior Hurling C semi-final: Portlaoise 2-10 to Tinnahinch 2-8.

Senior Football

Portlaoise bowed out of the championship at the quarter-final stage when St. Josephs easily accounted for them by 1-13 to 1- 8.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 1-12 to Ballylinan 2-7. Portlaoise 0-10 to The Heath 1-7. Portlaoise 1-12 to Timahoe 0-4.

Intermediate Hurling

Results: Portlaoise 1-9 to Trumera 0- 10. Portlaoise 1-9 to Colt 1-11. Playoff: Portlaoise 1-10 to Colt 0-8.Rathdowney 3-16 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Under 21 Hurling

Ballinakill 5-10 to Portlaoise 2-6.

First Junior C Championship Title

2003 brought another milestone in Portlaoise football history as the club secured its first ever Junior C Football Championship title.

Portlaoise produced an outstanding performance in the county final to overcome Arles-Kilcruise by 5-6 to 1-6 and capture a historic championship success.

Liam "Stapo" Brown captained the side to victory as Portlaoise added yet another football title.

Under 21 Football

Semi-final: Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-7 to Portlaoise 1-6.

Portlaoise officials vented their anger to County Chairman, Dick Miller, and County Board officials after the game, because they claimed that vested interests had insisted on playing this game on the day after the club had contested (and won) the minor football final. The Town were seeking their seventh title on the trot in the grade. It was a row that dragged on for some time. The “Town” side had earlier beaten The Heath Gaels by 2-9 to 3-4.

Minor Football

Portlaoise swept to the title by virtue of a runaway win in the final on a scoreline of: Portlaoise 3-11 to St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 0-7.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 5-15 to Wolfe Tones 1-7. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-15 to Ballylinan/Glenmore 2-4.

Minor Football Championship “B” Final: Courtwood 4-5 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Minor Hurling

Results: Camross 4-9 to Portlaoise 2-6. Semi-final: Harps 1-16 to Portlaoise 2-10.

The Juvenile Scene

A new hurling coaching programme aimed at primary and postprimary school pupils was launched in December 2003 by Portlaoise GAA Club. The launch by Pat Daly, National Director of Games Development at Croke Park attracted a big attendance to the club centre. Colm Clear was introduced as the coach for the programme. Seamus Plunkett headed the organising committee.

Under 16 Hurling

Under 16 HC “A” final: Kilcotton 1-8 to Portlaoise 0-11 (draw). Portlaoise 4-9 to Kilcotton 2-8 (replay).

Under 16 Football

Under 16 Football Championship“A” final: Portlaoise 2-10 to Ballylinan 1-9.

Under 14 Football

The U14s won the Feile Football final when they beat Graiguecullen 3-8 to 3-4.

In the national finals in Galway, Portlaoise lost out in controversial circumstances against the Down side, Rostrevor, in the semi-final played at Moycullen. It was a bizarre fixture with the game running late, no referee or umpires and in an unsatisfactory game it resulted in a two point defeat.

Under 14 Hurling

Portlaoise also won the county Feile (Under 14) in hurling. Portlaoise easily took the U14 football title at the expense of Stradbally Parish Gaels by 5-11 to 1-9.

Ladies Under 16

Ladies U16 semi-final: Portlaoise 2-7 to Sarsfield 1-8. Final Shanahoe 2-10 to Portlaoise 1-7.

First Under 14 Titles for Portlaoise Ladies

2003 marked another important milestone for Portlaoise Ladies Football as the club captured its first ever Under 14 titles, continuing the rapid growth of the ladies section at juvenile level.

The season began in impressive fashion with Portlaoise winning the Féile Peil na nÓg Final by defeating St. Conleths on acommanding 6-11 to 1-1 scoreline. The girls went on to represent the club and Laois in the national finals in Galway.

Portlaoise carried that form into the championship, producing a dominant 6-7 to 0-4 semi-final victory over Ballyroan to reach the county final.

In the final, Portlaoise completed a historic campaign by defeating Sarsfields 6-7 to 1-4 to claim the club's first Under 14 ladies football title.

Three in a Row for Under 12 Ladies

Portlaoise Ladies continued their remarkable rise in 2003 as the club's Under 12 side secured an outstanding third consecutive championship title.

The girls produced another excellent performance in the county final, defeating Ballyroan by 4-4 to 2-4 to complete a memorable three in a row achievement.

Under 12 Football

Portlaoise made more history in 2003 when fielding three Under 12 boys teams in competitive football.

2003 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor Footballer of the Year Peter McNulty
• Men’s Football – Junior Junior ‘C’ Football Championship Portlaoise 5-6 v 1-6 Arles/Kilcruise Captain: Liam Browne
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-11 v 0-7 St Josephs/Barrowhouse Captain: Craig Rogers
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 5-11 v 1-9 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-8 v 3-4 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 1-9 Ballylinan
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 0-11 v 1-8 Kilcotton
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 0-6 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 4-8 v 3-4 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 6-11 v 1-1 St Conleth's

AGM

21st Celebration of the All-Ireland win

Portlaoise organised a “Rollin’ back the years” celebration to mark the 21st anniversary of the club’s All-Ireland club title win of 1983 in the club centre on February 28. It was a night of reminiscences and lots of nostalgia with the players and mentors associated with the clubs greatest triumph having their first big get together since the famous victory.

Laois lose in Leinster Final

Powered by five Portlaoise players, Aidan Fennelly, Colm Byrne, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Ian Fitzgerald and Colm Parkinson, Laois were back in the Leinster Senior Football Championship final by virtue of a 1-13 to 0-9 win over Meath in the semi-final. Laois and Westmeath finished level in the Leinster final at 0-13 each in a game in which the O’Moore men failed to live up to their true form. In the replay Laois lost disappointingly by 0-12 to 0-10 in a game that was there for the taking. Down annihilated Laois in the qualifiers by 3-15 to 2-4.

Laois Minors win Leinster

In the minor final Laois beat Kildare 0-10 to 0-6. Portlaoise were well represented by Cahir Healy and Craig Rogers. Cork and Laois finished level in an exciting quarter-final clash at 1-9 each. Laois won the replay by 1-10 to 0-6. In the semi-final Laois just came up a little short when going under to Kerry by 1-10 to 1-8 and so relinquished their All-Ireland crown.

Dick Sides presents Player of the Match awards

It was the year when Portlaoise completed another senior double and added a Leinster club football title for good measure – among many other achievements. The honour of presenting the man-of-the match awards after the county finals fell to club president Dick Sides, representing the Portlaoise Credit Union. Dick had the pleasure of awarding ther hurling final award to team captain, Joe Phelan, and the football final award to Brian McCormack.

Award winners

Peter McNulty was selected as the outstanding minor of 2003 at the annual awards. Paddy Connolly received an award for his work for Scor while Paddy Donovan received a Handball award. Craig Rogers received aLeinster Express award for an outstanding year. Colm Parkinson won the Laois GAA Award for 2004 for football and Noel Costello for hurling.

Town Park Proposal Presented

With overcrowding becoming increasingly severe and the Celtic Tiger economy creating opportunities for development, John Hanniffy began formally exploring relocation options. In December 2004 a proposal was presented to Minister Tom Parlon outlining a vision for a town park, new sporting facilities and a new school campus centred around lands at St. Fintan's Hospital.

Seventh Senior Football and Hurling Double

Portlaoise added another historic chapter to club history in 2004 by completing an extraordinary seventh Senior Football and Hurling Championship double.

Senior Football

The senior footballers claimed the club's 24th Laois Senior Football Championship title with an impressive 0-15 to 0-6 victory over Emo in the county final.

Portlaoise entered the decider as favourites and justified that billing with an efficient and disciplined display. Following an even opening, captain Colm Parkinson produced the score of the game after twelve minutes to help settle his side.

Leading 0-6 to 0-2 at half-time, Portlaoise gradually tightened their grip on proceedings and finished strongly with four unanswered points to secure another county crown.

Results of earlier rounds: Portlaoise 3-13 to Ballylinan 1-4. Portlaoise 1-12 to Portarlington 1-12. Portlaoise 2-17 to Clonaslee - St. Manmans 0-7. Quarter-final: St. Josephs 1- 8. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-15 to O’Dempseys 1-6. Emo 2-6 to The Rock 0-10.

ACFL Div. One Final: St.Josephs 0-10 to Portlaoise 0-10. An injury time point by Barry Fitzgerald brought this thriller to a replay.

ACFL Div. One Final Replay (Played in 2005): Portlaoise 2-13 to St. Josephs 3-6.

Senior Hurling

Success followed on the hurling field where Portlaoise secured their 11th Senior Hurling Championship title by defeating Castletown in the county final.

The promise of another senior hurling title shown by the ‘Town’ team in earlier rounds bore fruit when they swept to a seven point win in the final on a scoreline of: Portlaoise 2-8 to Castletown 0-7.

The Leinster Express ran with the banner headline

“Castletown outfoxed by hungry Portlaoise”.

The report read:

“The Town, managed by Tullamore man, Damien Fox, laid the foundation for their 11th county triumph with an heroic and defiant first half performance. They trailed by 0-3 o 0-1 after twelve minutes but despite facing the cascading rain and howling wind they courageously dug deep and Noel Costello’s expertly kicked injury-time goal provided Portlaoise with an interval lead of 2-5 to 0-6.”

Managed by Damien Fox, Portlaoise showed tremendous resolve in difficult conditions. Trailing early while facing driving rain and strong winds, Noel Costello's expertly taken injury-time goal helped establish a crucial 2-5 to 0-6 half-time advantage.

With conditions in their favour after the interval, Portlaoise never relinquished control. Adisciplined defensive performance restricted Castletown to a single second-half point as the Town powered towards another county title.

Other results: Portlaoise 0-8 to Ballinakill 1-9. Portlaoise 1-21 to Camross 1-3. Portlaoise 3-12 to Kilcotton 3-11. Portlaoise 4-17 to Errill 0-7. Portlaoise 5-13 to The Harps 2-9. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-17 to Tinnahinch 2-4. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-17 to Ballinakill 0-9.

Leinster Club

Portlaoise 2-17 to Castletown/Geoghegan 1-12.

In the semi-final Portlaoise lost to UCD 1-20 to 0-11, who lined out with an array of inter-county stars. The Nationalist summed up the general feeling after the game. “The debate on whether they should be allowed into the championship will gather momentum and it certainly is easy to have sympathy with any club team that tries to compete against them. With not one Dublin player aboard they are hardly representative of Dublin hurling and one wonders what it proves to allow them to compete …” Sean Cotter replaced the injured Niall Rigney in the starting lineout as the only change in personnel from the county final team. Mick Bowe, Roc Scully and Broughan Reilly came on as subs in a disappointing game against opposition that had no right, as the pundits rightly maintained, to compete in the club championship.

Sixth Leinster Title Ends Seventeen-Year Wait

Portlaoise captured a record sixth Leinster Senior Club Football Championship title and ending a seventeen-year wait for provincial success.

Impressive victories over Rhode by 3-10 to 0-4 and Kilmacud Crokes by 0-14 to 0-8 booked the Town's place in the Leinster Final where Meath champions Skryne stood between Portlaoise and provincial glory.

A huge Portlaoise support travelled to Newbridge hopeful of seeing history made. Forced to line out without Ian Fitzgerald and the injured Barry Fitzgerald, Portlaoise faced a major challenge but produced one of the great provincial performances in club history.

Outstanding displays throughout the field saw Portlaoise establish a commanding 0-8 to 0-1 half-time lead. Skryne threatened a comeback early in the second half through Trevor Giles and Kevin Mulvaney, but Peter McNulty produced one of the scores of the day before Martin Delaney struck a crucial goal.

A late Skryne rally, including a Trevor Giles penalty and another goal three minutes from time, briefly raised tension levels before Brian McCormack's late point confirmed a famous 1-11 to 2-4 victory.

Colm Parkinson accepted the cup as captain amid memorable celebrations, with Mick "Doc" Fitzpatrick's rendition of The Portlaoise Queen creating one of the most cherished moments in club history.

Results: Portlaoise 3-10 to Rhode 0-4. Portlaoise 0-14 to Kilmacud Crokes (Dublin) 0-8. Leinster final: Portlaoise 1-11 to Skryne (Meath) 2-4.

Intermediate Hurling

Trumera 1-10 to Portlaoise 0-3. Portlaoise 3-5 to Abbeyleix 0-12. Shanahoe 1-13 to Portlaoise 3-6. Portlaoise 4-6 to Clonaslee/St. Manmans 1-9. Quarter-final: Camross 3-16 to Portlaoise 3-11.

Intermediate Football

Courtwood 1-10 to Portlaoise 0-7. Killeshin 1-11 to Portlaoise 1-5. Annanough w/o; Portlaoise scr.

Junior Football

Graiguecullen 0-9 to Portlaoise 0-10. Portlaoise 1-9 to Barrowhouse 0-10. Kilcavan beat Portlaoise in the quarter-final and went on to win the title.

Junior Football Championship “B”: Ballylinan 0-17 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Junior Hurling

JH “B” semi-final: Portlaoise 2-6 to Clough/Ballacolla 0-12. Replay: Clough/Ballacolla 2-12 to Portlaoise 3-5.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise easily accounted for Ballyroan Gaels in the semi-final 1-12 to 0-3 and so qualified to meet Stradbally who had frustrated their attempt to win seven in a row titles the previous year.

The final was played in Portarlington in January 2005 and resulted in a thrilling draw with Stradbally Parish Gaels at 0-8 apiece. A Craig Rogers point in the dying moments saved the day for the “Town”.

In the replay played on 15th April 2005 also at Portarlington, the Stradbally side just edged matters at 0-8 to 0-6.

Minor Hurling

Camross/Kyle 1-12 to Portlaoise 2-8. Clough/Ballacolla 2-11 to Portlaoise 0-14.

Minor Football

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 2-13 to Portarlington/Emo 1-4. Stradbally qualified for the final at the expense of Portlaoise in the semi-final but lost the decider to Ballylinan/Glenmore. Stradbally Parish Gaels 2-10 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Minor Football Championship “B”: Park/Ratheniska 0-6 to Portlaoise 1-14. Portlaoise 4-5 to Ballyfin 0-3. Final: The Heath 2-6 to Portlaoise 2-4.

Féile Triple Success

Portlaoise Under 14s completed an outstanding football, hurling and ladies football treble in 2004 by winning their respective Féile finals.

The Under 14 hurlers secured Féile n nGael honours with an impressive 1-7 to 1-2 victory over Camross in the county final.

Success followed on the football field where Portlaoise edged Stradbally Parish Gaels by 1-4 to 0-5 in another hard-fought Féile Peil na nÓg Final to complete the football and hurling double.

The remarkable year was completed by the Portlaoise Ladies Under 14 footballers who secured Féile Peil na nÓg honours for the club with a 3-1 to 1-2 victory over St. Conleth's.

Together the three victories completed an outstanding Féile treble for Portlaoise.

First Ever Minor Match for Portlaoise Ladies

2004 marked an important milestone in the development of Portlaoise Ladies Football as the club fielded its first ever minor team.

The historic first outing came against Sarsfields. Although Portlaoise were defeated on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-6, the result was secondary to the landmark occasion for the club.

The team mentors who guided the historic group were Sean Dunne, Seamus Brady, Willie Byrne, Patricia Brothwood, Noreen Byrne and Mary Murphy.

First Ever Under 16 Ladies Title

2004 brought another landmark achievement for Portlaoise Ladies Football as the club secured its first ever Under 16 championship title.

Played in March 2005, Portlaoise produced an excellent display in the final to overcome Shanahoe on a scoreline of 3-9 to 1-4, securing a historic breakthrough success at the grade.

Ladies Under 14

Championship 'A' final: Portlaoise 7-8 to Ballyroan 1-3.

League final: Portlaoise 4-4 to Ballyroan 0-4.

Championship 'B' final: Portlaoise 5-17 to St. Conleths 1-6.

Ladies Under 12

Under 12 Ladies FC: Crettyard 1-6 to Portlaoise 0-5.

Ladies U12 League final: Portlaoise 1-10 to Crettyard 0-7.

CBS win South Leinster “B” Senior Football Championship

Portlaoise CBS scored a great win over Gorey CS by 3-5 to 0-8 in the South Leinster Senior Football Championship “B” final played in Kildavin in January.

In the Leinster semi-final, Portlaoise beat St. Joseph’s, Drogheda by 3-6 to 1-9. A late point from Keith Murphy proved to be the winner for Portlaoise in a closely fought final. They beat Malahide CS by 1-8 to 1-7 at Navan. David Carroll was in for Michael Tierney at the start, but Tierney made his appearance after 40 minutes and contributed to the scoring. Scott Conroy was outstanding and scored 1-4 of the winning total. The CBS next accounted for St. Augustines, Dungarvan, on a 1-11 to 1-6 scoreline in the All-Ireland semi-final thanks to Michael Tierney’s free taking which netted 0-6.

In the final the Portlaoise men were just beaten in a closely fought final by the Down side, St. Louis, Kilkeel, on a 1-11 to 1-8 scoreline. Once again Michael Tierney shot 0-6, one from a “45”, while Craig Rogers was outstanding.

2004 honours

• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurler of the Year Noel Costello
• Men’s Football – Referee Laois Football Referee of the Year Tony Maher
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Colm Parkinson
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 0-10 v 0-10 St. Joseph's
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 0-15 v 0-6 Emo Captain: Colm Parkinson
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 1-4 v 0-5 Stradbally Parish Gaels Captain: Craig Scully
• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-10 v 2-4 Camross Captain: Paul Cotter
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 0-7 Castletown Captain: Joe Phelan
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise 1-7 v 1-2 Camross
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 1-10 v 0-7 Crettyard
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 7-8 v 1-3 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 4-4 v 0-4 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘B’ Championship Portlaoise 5-17 v 1-6 St Conleths
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-12 v 1-2 St Conleth's
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 4-7 v 0-6 Shanahoe

AGM

Development sub-committee formed

At an extraordinary general meeting of the club in July it was decided to allow a sub-committee explore all the development options open to them including a possible sale of their grounds at Fr. Browne Avenue and the development of a bigger site in the town. Over 140 members voted to give powers to a newly elected committee to bring back the best options to the club membership for a final decision. John Hanniffy made a presentation at the meeting and these were enthusiastically received. Chairman, Niall Kavanagh, explained that it was important for the club to consider the way forward for the next 25/30 years and this was a part of that process. Amongst the fund-raising activities was a Car Boot Sale at the club centre in July in aid of the Juveniles and the injured players’ fund.

The Great Hurling Debate

The Great Hurling Debate, organised by the Portlaoise Urban Development Committee, which included Colm Clear, Pat Leogue, Pat Critchley and Seamus Plunkett, took place in the Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise on Monday, 28 February. Chairperson and MC was Micheal O Muicheartaigh and the panel consisted of Brian Cody, Michael Duignan, Brian Whelehan and Ger Loughnane. The fundraiser was for the support of the hurling coaching programme under Colm Clear, which had been taking place for the previous twelve months. It attracted a full house and the debate was a lively one.

Club rallies around Ciaran

The club rallied around former Portlaoise star player, Ciaran Connell, who was seriously injured in a savage attack on him outside a German night club in early May. A Race Nite was held in the club centre to help out with the huge expenses the family faced as a result of the assault.

Laois denied

Dublin robbed Laois with two late free kicks, one a “45”, from the foot of Tomas Quinn to seal an unlikely victory in a thrilling Leinster Senior Football Final before a full house attendance of 82,215 in July. Laois were struggling early on and Dublin built up a commanding lead but turning in a superb second half performance they looked like winners until those late late scores. Cavan referee, Joe McQuillan, allowed the Dubs the benefit of what was a clear foul on a Laois player and sweeping downfield the Dubs forced a “45” which was duly pointed. It must be numbered as one of the biggest cases of match robbery in Laois’ long history in the GAA. The defeat signalled the final highpoint of the team that had swept to victory in 2003. Among the Laois stars were Aidan Fennelly and team captain, Kevin Fitzpatrick

Laois kept their interest in the All-Ireland Senior Football championship alive by virtue of a good win over Derry by 1-11 to 0-11 but in the quarter-final Armagh put paid to their hopes with a comprehensive 2-17 to 1-11 win at Croke Park in August. There was some compensation for Laois in the Leinster Minor Football final which was the curtain-raiser on Leinster Final day. They readily accounted for Offaly by 0-12 to 0-7. Portlaoise’s Jack Fennell was one of the stars. But the run of successes came to an abrupt end with the defeat by Kerry by 0- 14 to 1-4 in the quarter-final in Limerick.

Historic Victory Over Crossmaglen and All-Ireland Heartbreak

Few victories in Portlaoise history carry the same significance as the famous win over Crossmaglen Rangers in February 2005. Against one of the greatest club sides of the modern era, Portlaoise produced a display of courage, discipline and determination to book a place in the All-Ireland Club Football Final.

Played at Parnell Park on February 10th, Portlaoise established themselves from the opening whistle and carried a one-point advantage into half-time.

Crossmaglen, playing with their customary intensity, edged ahead during the third quarter but Portlaoise refused to yield. Peter McNulty proved decisive, calmly converting two late frees to swing momentum back towards the Town.

The Armagh champions' frustrations showed late on when Stephen Kernan was sent off following a reckless challenge on Craig Rogers, as Portlaoise closed out one of the finest victories in club history to secure aplace at Croke Park on St Patrick's Day.

The historic side was Michael Nolan, Tommy Fitzgerald, Colm Byrne, Eoin Bland, Brian Mulligan, Cahir Healy, Aidan Fennelly, Martin Delaney (0-1), Enda Coleman, Brian McCormack, Ian Fitzgerald (0-1), Kevin Fitzpatrick, Peter McNulty (0-5, four frees), Colm Parkinson and Craig Rogers. Substitutes used were Barry Fitzgerald (0-1 free) and Michael Fennelly.

The All-Ireland Final against Ballina Stephenites offered Portlaoise an opportunity to claim a second All-Ireland Club Football title and a first since 1983.

In front of a huge St Patrick's Day attendance at Croke Park, Portlaoise delivered a magnificent performance and at times looked destined to bring the title back to Laois.

Kevin Fitzpatrick struck twice for goal, including an expertly converted penalty, while Peter McNulty's accuracy from placed balls kept the Town in control for long periods.

Portlaoise led by two points at half-time and again moved clear after Kevin Fitzpatrick's brilliant second goal from play.

However, Ballina Stephenites found one final surge, scoring the last three points of the game to edge victory by 1-12 to 2-8 and deny Portlaoise a second All-Ireland title in heartbreaking fashion.

The Portlaoise team was Michael Nolan, Tommy Fitzgerald, Colm Byrne, Eoin Bland, Brian Mulligan, Cahir Healy, Aidan Fennelly, Kevin Fitzpatrick (2-0), Martin Delaney, Brian McCormack (0-1), Ian Fitzgerald, Craig Rogers (0-1), Peter McNulty (0-4), Colm Parkinson (0-1) and Barry Fitzgerald (0-1). Substitute used was Michael Fennelly.

Managed by club man Tom Conroy, the campaign remains one of the finest in Portlaoise history. While the All-Ireland title narrowly slipped away, the victory over Crossmaglen and the performances throughout that unforgettable journey ensured the 2005 side would always hold a special place in club history.

Senior Football

The final against Stradbally was one game that slipped away in bizarre circumstances. Portlaoise has won more close decisions over the years in football but fans felt that this was one they hardly deserved to lose. The bonfires were burning in the “little town” after taking this major scalp in a thriller on a scoreline of Stradbally 1-10 to Portlaoise 1-9.

The Leinster Express reported:

“An injury time point. A controversial decision. A penalty. Terrible conditions. Excellent scores and two ferociously committed teams. This year’s county final just about had it all, as Stradbally snatched a late, late victory to dethrone reigning Leinster and County Champions, Portlaoise in a thrilling final.” There was no more than two points between the sides at any time during the final three quarters of the game and this thrilling contest was level five times. Colm Kelly sent over the winner from a controversial free, classed as “a harsh decision” by the Leinster Express reporter, Rory Delaney by referee, Eddie Kinsella, who was not the flavour of the month for Portlaoise team or supporters, who vented their feelings at the end of the game.

Earlier in the semi-final, Sean Cotter came to Portlaoise’s rescue with his injury time point to force a replay against Emo. In the replay it was a case of Emo throwing the game away with wide after wide. Peter McNulty with five points, three from frees, and Craig Rogers with three, were the “Town’s” salvation.

Earlier results: Stradbally 0-10 to Portlaoise 0-7. Portlaoise 1-9 to Ballylinan 1-3. Portlaoise 1-7 to Arles/Killeen 1-5. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-12 to The Rock 1-4. Emo 0-10. (Draw) Replay: Portlaoise 0-13 to Emo 2-6.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise bowed out of contention for this year’s title race by virtue of a 1-13 to 0-11 defeat by the ‘auld’ enemy Castletown in the semi-final. This was a serious setback for the “Town” after fighting their way back to the top of the pile in 2004.

Portlaoise led by 0-7 to 0-4 at the break but a lack lustre second half cost them dearly. The nationalist summed it up:“The champions lacked leadership and too many of their main players were not up to the challenge”.

Previous results: Portlaoise 1-19 to Ballinakill 0-10. Clough/Ballacolla 3-8 to Portlaoise 1-13. Portlaoise 4-13 to Clonad 0-9. Portlaoise 5-14 to Harps 0-7. Portlaoise 3-19 to Rathdowney/Errill 1-14. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-14 to Tinnahinch 1-8.

Intermediate Hurling

First round: Shanahoe 2-13 to Portlaoise 3-9.

Junior 'A' Football Double for Men and Ladies

Both the men's and ladies teams secured Junior 'A' Football Championship honours to complete an outstanding double for the club.

The men's junior footballers captured county honours with an emphatic 3-10 to 0-6 victory over Park/Ratheniska in the county final.

Captained by Ollie Fennell, Portlaoise produced acommanding display and led by six points after just nineteen minutes. From there the outcome was never seriously in doubt.

Danny Reddin struck two goals while Eoin Browne also found the net as the Town powered towards victory and lifted the Bill Phelan Cup.

Earlier results: Portlaoise lost to Park/Ratheniska and beat Graiguecullen. Other games: Portlaoise 2-12 to Barrowhouse 1- 3. Portlaoise 2-6 to Ballinakill 1-4. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-13 to Spink 0-8. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-11 to The Heath 0-8.

ACFL Div. 3 Final: Portlaoise 1-9 to St. Josephs 0-7.

Eoin Browne's contribution across the season was recognised when he received the Laois GAA Award for Junior Football.

Camross scored a rare football win over Portlaoise in the Junior “B” semi-final a Mountrath. The sides were level at 1-5 each at the interval but a second half goal from Tadgh Doran was the crucial score in the second half that swung the game the way of Camross by the minimum, 2-10 to 2-9.

Portlaoise had earlier beaten Ballylinan and Errill.

Success followed for the ladies side who produced adominant display to defeat R&C Gaels by 5-8 to 0-1 in the Ladies Junior Football Final.

The victory represented the first Junior title won by the ladies section since the club had been reconstituted and marked another important milestone in its development.

Junior Hurling

Favourites ,Borris-in-Ossory, led Portlaoise by eleven points early in the second half but then out of the blue Portlaoise struck back with a brace of goals by Declan Hearns and some other great scores had them level. Borris star, Pat O’Brien, who won championships with Portlaoise footballers in his time, salvaged the game for the winners in the dying minutes. Result: Borris-in-Ossory 1-13 to Portlaoise 4-3.

In the JH league (ACHL Div 4) semi-final, Clough/Ballacolla beat Portlaoise by 2-14 to 3-7.

Portlaoise win U21 Football Championshiptitle

The referee dished out no less than fifteen yellow cards during this rough and tumble final against Ballylinan/Glenmore at Ratheniska. It seemed the opposition were attempting to intimidate the Town lads but that proved to be a fatal error. They had stars in Donie Brennan, David Conway and Sean O’Shea but Portlaoise had a better balanced outfit and refused to yield. Portlaoise scored all but one of their scores from frees and due to the accuracy of Barry Fitzgerald and Peter McNulty it proved to be Portlaoise’s title. The Town led by 0-4 to 0-1 at the break.

Final: Portlaoise 0-7 to Ballylinan/Glenmore 0-5.

Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 1-9 to Portarlington 0-10. Portlaoise 2- 12 to Wolfe Tones 1-6. Semi-final: Portlaoise 0-12 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 0-6.

Under 21 Hurling

Clonad beat Portlaoise in the opening round.

Minor Football

Champions of 2004, Ballylinan/Glenmore just edged out the Town in a thrilling semi-final at Ratheniska. Portlaoise trailed by four points at the break but with Jack Fennell dominating at midfield the Town men really rattled their highly-rated opponents who barely held but in a gripping finale. Ballylinan/Glenmore 2-8 to Portlaoise 2-6.

Ladies Minor

Portlaoise lady footballers qualified for their first ever minor final by beating Sarsfields 2-9 to 0-4. In the final replay Shanahoe won the title on a 3-5 to 1-6 scoreline.

Minor Hurling

Camross/Kyle came up trumps with a fairly clear-cut win by 2- 7 to 0-6 against a disappointing Town side. Dean Delaney with a point gave the winners a lead they would never surrender in the opening minute. They were quickly three points to the good when Adam Colohan opened the Portlaoise account. But the hopes of recovery were quickly dented when Dan Lalor soloed through the Portlaoise defence and gave Conor Bohane no chance in the Town goal. Brian Seale, Darragh Rigney, Craig Scully, Eoghan Whelan, Mark Kavanagh and Philip O’Connell were to the fore in a plucky Town team but they fell short in the finish.

Portlaoise were knocked out of the championship when they were surprisingly beaten by Mountmellick Gaels. Mountmellick were only narrowly beaten by Camross in the semi-final. Result: Mountmellick Gaels 3-7 to Portlaoise 3-4.

Under 16 Football Double for Men and Ladies

Portlaoise completed an Under 16 football double with county championship success for both the boys and ladies teams.

The boys Under 16 side captured the Under 16 "A" Football Championship title with an impressive 3-13 to 1-7 victory over Graiguecullen in the final.

Portlaoise established control early and carried afive-point advantage into half-time before pulling away in the second period to secure another county title.

Goals from Brian Smith, Barry McEvoy and Mark Kavanagh proved decisive as the Town completed another memorable underage success.

Success followed on the ladies football field where Portlaoise secured the Under 16 "A" Championship title following a commanding 4-4 to 0-4 victory over Sarsfields.

Clean Sweep for Under 14 Ladies

Portlaoise qualified for the Feile (U14) Finals by virtue of a 2-11 to 2-3 win over Crettyard.

The team was based in Boherbue, Co. Cork.

In the All-Ireland series Portlaoise lost in the final played at the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick to The Banner (Clare). The Banner had lost the previous two finals and Portlaoise were unlucky on the day not to get a result.

In the semi-final they beat Knockbride, Co. Cavan, by 4-6 to 2- 2. Physio, Ned Murphy, was tied up with an engagement with Tipperary club, Toomevara, but raced to be with the Portlaoise team for the final at the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick.

Dedication such as Ned showed as always makes Portlaoise the great club it is.

Championship glory followed in emphatic fashion as Portlaoise overwhelmed Ballyroan by 7-8 to 1-3 in the Under 14 Championship Final.

Earlier round: Portlaoise 3-5 to Park/Ratheniska 1-1.

Portlaoise added league honours with a 4-4 to 0-4 victory over Ballyroan in the Under 14 League Final, completing an outstanding season.

The club's strength at the grade was further underlined when the Portlaoise Under 14 B side secured county honours with an emphatic 5-17 to 1-6 victory over St. Conleths in the championship final.

Under 14 Football

Championship: Killeshin beat Portlaoise in the quarter-final.

U14 Football Championship“B” final: Portlaoise 3-5 to Barrowhouse 0-3.

Under 12 Boys and Girls Football Double

Portlaoise completed an outstanding Under 12 football double with county honours secured by both the boys and girls teams.

The girls side enjoyed a tremendous season by completing a league and championship double.

Championship honours were secured with a 2-7 to 1-5 victory over St. Conleths in the county final.

The girls also won the league final with a 2-5 to 2-3 win over St. Conleths.

Success followed on the boys side where the Portlaoise Under 12 "A" footballers secured championship honours with a 1-10 to 1-4 victory over O'Dempsey's.

U12 Div 1 Football League final: O’Dempseys 6-5 to Portlaoise 2-5.

Niall steps down

At the AGM, Niall Kavanagh stepped down as chairman after seven years and with no one prepared to take the position, the main business of the meeting was deferred until the New Year. The senior hurling manager, John Taylor, and senior football manager, Mark Kavanagh, also relinquished their positions and a smaller than usual attendance all combined to make it a frustrating meeting. The outgoing chairman was firmly of the belief that the club was a victim of the county’s success as it affected numbers training. He was also critical of the way fixtures were imposed upon the club and said it was a situation that could not continue.

2005 honours

• Club Awards – Special Merit Laois Special Merit and Outstanding Contribution Award Winners Peter Carroll Outstanding Contribution Award
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior Footballer of the Year Eoin Browne
• Men’s Football – Referee Laois Football Referee of the Year Ollie Ryan
• Men’s Football – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-10 v 0-6 Park/Ratheniska Captain: Ollie Fennell
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 3 Portlaoise 1-9 v 0-7 St. Joseph's
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-10 v 1-4 O’Dempsey’s
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'B' Football Championship Portlaoise 3-5 v 0-3 Barrowhouse
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-12 v 1-7 Graiguecullen Captain: Murray Rogers
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-7 v 0-5 Ballylinan/Glenmore Captain: Brian Mulligan
• Ladies Football – Junior Laois Ladies Junior ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 5-8 v 0-1 R & C Gaels
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 2-7 v 1-5 StConleths
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 2-5 v 2-3 St Conleths
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 4-15 v 0-2 St Conleths
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-5 v 1-2 St Conleths
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 4-4 v 0-4 Sarsfields

AGM

Vincent Dowling became the new chairman of the club in place of the retiring Niall Kavanagh. Vincent (Vinnie) had been secretary for a number of years. He was replaced as secretary by Peter O’Neill.

Ladies AGM

At the AGM Gerry Cawley was elected chairman of the Portlaoise Ladies Football.

Needs Analysis and Development Study

Throughout 2005 the relocation committee undertook a comprehensive review of the club's future needs. Led by extensive member consultation and surveys, the committee assessed facilities requirements, development opportunities and long-term growth plans. This work culminated in the Relocation Development Options Report presented at the 2006 AGM.

At a packed Extraordinary General Meeting on 10 March 2006, members voted on a motion to relocate the club's grounds. Following a passionate debate, the motion was carried by the required two-thirds majority, passing by just two votes. The decision marked one of the most significant moments in the club's history and formally launched the relocation project.

A dedicated Relocation Development Committee was established consisting of Vincent Dowling, Peter O'Neill, John Hanniffy, Teddy Fennelly and Jim Gaynor. During 2006 the committee examined numerous sites before identifying and securing approximately 38 acres at Rathleague. Simultaneously, plans were developed for the sale and redevelopment of the club's Fr. Browne Avenue grounds.

By the end of 2006 the club had assembled a development package involving the sale of Fr. Browne Avenue for €19 million, the purchase of the Rathleague lands for €6 million and an estimated €10 million development project for pitches and clubhouse facilities. Contracts were linked to planning approval and backed by a bank guarantee.

Highlights

Portlaoise club grounds were the subject of huge cash offers early in the year. During the year the lands were zoned as “Business” by Laois County Council. Main successes on the field of play were confined to Under 21, Under 16 and Under 12 football. Both senior teams were beaten at the quarter-final stage. The ladies teams were beginning to figure more prominently in their competitions.

Laois won their seventh Under 21 Leinster title beating Longford by 0-9 to 0-7 in a grim final at Longford. Included on the winning side were Cahir Healy, Craig Rogers and team captain, Peter McNulty.

In the All-Ireland semi-final the game finished level at Laois 1- 10, Cork 0-13 and after extra time the teams were still locked together at 2-13 each with Heath man, Chris Bergin getting a late equaliser. It was nail-biting stuff all through. Cork got the better of the Laois side in the replay by 1-7 to 0-8 at Limerick.

Kerry put paid to Laois’ ambitions of a third NFL title when comprehensively beating them by 1-15 to 0-10 in the semi-final at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney in March. Brian (Bruno) McCormack was the sole Portlaoise representative on the starting fifteen but Colm Parkinson and Ian Fitzgerald were introduced as subs during the game.

In the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship quarter-final on August 17th, Mayo put a stop to the Laois gallop with an 0-14 to 0-11 win at Croke Park. Included on Laois team were Aidan Fennelly and Brian (Bruno) McCormack, and sub, Ian Fitzgerald.

Portlaoise threatened to withdraw their players from county teams following a County Board decision not to refix a Senior Football Championship game between the club and St. Josephs. A compromise was later found.

Senior Football

A weakened Portlaoise side exited the championship at the quarter-final stage to O’Dempseys by a single point. The “Town” played second fiddle for most of the opening half and trailed by 1-9 to 0-3 at the break. Peter O’Leary extended the lead to ten points on the restart but then it all changed.

Typically Portlaoise battled back and camped in their opponent’s half. Little by little they cut into the big lead with Martin Delaney in rampant form. But in the end they came up just short and suffered an early exit.

Results: O’Dempseys 0-7 to Portlaoise 0-6. Portlaoise 3-11 to Timahoe 0-6. Play-off: Portlaoise 0-15 to Timahoe 1-6. Quarter-final: O’Dempseys 1-11 to Portlaoise 1-10.

Star player, Ian Fitzgerald, announced his retirement from both club and county teams in September.

Senior Hurling

A strong start and a fighting finish was sufficient to secure for Tinnahinch what the Leinster Express described as the shock of the championship. Tinnahinch led by 2-3 to 0-2 at the end of the first quarter and that provided the impetus for their win. Portlaoise conceded too many easy scores but things improved when midfielder, Cahir Healy, was moved back into defence. Tommy Fitzgerald, Noel Costello and star player, Tony Byrne, conjured some magic for the “Town” as they battled back in the second half but, like the footballers, they ended up just short and out of the championship.

Results: Portlaoise 2-15 to Castletown 0-10. Portlaoise 4-13 to Clough/Ballacolla 1-11. Portlaoise 2-12 to Mountrath 0-10. Portlaoise 3-20 to Clonad 0-5. Portlaoise 2-7 to Kilcotton 0-12. Quarter-final: Tinnahinch 3-11 to Portlaoise 2-10. Rathdowney/Errill beat Tinnahinch by 1-11 to 1-7 in the final.

Intermediate Hurling

Portlaoise 4-9 to Rathdowney-Errill 1-9. Ballyfin 1-14 to Portlaoise 2-6. Portlaoise 1-14 to Abbeyleix 1-12. Colt 2-11 to Portlaoise 0-5. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-13 to Shanahoe 0-10. Semi-final: Ballyfin 2-12 to Portlaoise 2-5.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise 1-10 to Mountmellick 2-8. Annanough 0-12 to Portlaoise 0-7.

First Intermediate Titles for Portlaoise Ladies

2006 marked another historic milestone for Portlaoise Ladies Football as the club captured its first ever Intermediate Football Championship and League titles.

Portlaoise booked their place in the county final with an impressive 2-9 to 0-8 semi-final victory over Park/Ratheniska.

In the county final, Portlaoise overcame St. Conleths to secure a breakthrough success and write another important chapter in the growing history of the ladies section.

The success did not end there. Later in the year Portlaoise added league honours to complete a memorable double, defeating Park/Ratheniska by 4-6 to 1-8 in the Intermediate League Final.

Junior Ladies

Crettyard 4-7 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise were crowned Under 21 champions for the second year in a row and the eighth time in ten years amid gale force winds in Timahoe on a bleak December day. Portlaoise took a stranglehold of the game in the opening half and led by six points at the break. But with wind backing back came the Saints/Barrowhouse and the “Town” side just held out in a gripping finish. Team captain, Cahir Healy, who led by example was presented with the winner’s trophy after the game. Final score: Portlaoise 0-8 to St. Josephs Barrowhouse 0-7.

Other results: Portlaoise 1-6 to O’Dempseys 0-4. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-12 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 0-8.

Under 21 Hurling

Camross/Kyle 4-5 to Portlaoise 0-10.

Minor Football

Stradbally Parish Gaels got the better of Portlaoise in a highly entertaining final by 3-8 to 0-10. Two goals in the final ten minutes from Simon Miller clinched the title for the Gaels.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 3-9 to Graiguecullen 1-5. Semi-final: Mountmellick Gaels 2-7 to Portlaoise 2-5 (abandoned after 55 minutes due to injury to Portlaoise player). Replay: Portlaoise 2-11 to Mountmellick Gaels 2-9. Final: Stradbally Parish Gaels 3-8 to Portlaoise 0-10.

Minor Football Championship ‘B’: Portlaoise 3-10 to St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 5-9.

Minor Hurling

Mountmellick Gaels 2-6 to Portlaoise 0-7. Borris/ Kilcotton 1-20 to Portlaoise 2-4.

Under 16 Football Double for Men and Ladies

Portlaoise completed an Under 16 football double with county championship honours secured by both the boys and ladies teams.

The boys Under 16 footballers produced an excellent performance in the county final to defeat Stradbally Parish Gaels by 2-11 to 0-7 and claim championship success.

Portlaoise controlled the contest throughout and delivered a strong all-round display to secure another county title for the club.

Success followed on the ladies football field where Portlaoise secured the Under 16 championship title with a commanding 5-4 to 2-1 victory over Sarsfields.

Laois Ladies Under 16

A number of the Portlaoise players helped Laois beat Dublin by 4-4 to 1-2 in the Leinster final a few weeks later. Cork beat them in the semi-final by 2-10 to 0-8.

Another Clean Sweep for Under 14 Ladies

Portlaoise Ladies continued their remarkable underage progress in 2005 as the Under 14 side completed a superb clean sweep of county honours winning championship, league and Féile titles.

The championship title was secured with a dominant 4-9 to 0-4 victory over Barrowhouse in the county final. Earlier in the campaign, Portlaoise had recorded an impressive 4-8 to 1-3 win over Crettyard.

The league title followed with another strong performance as Portlaoise defeated Sarsfields by 3-11 to 2-4 in the Under 14 League Final.

The side also captured Féile Peil na nÓg honours, completing a memorable treble and earning the right to represent both Portlaoise and Laois at the national Féile finals in Wicklow.

Féile Peil International Success in Birmingham

Portlaoise Under 14 ladies travelled to Birmingham for the Féile Peil International competition and created a truly unique piece of club history.

In an extraordinary achievement, two Portlaoise Under 14 Ladies teams progressed all the way to the Féile Peil International Final.

The final became an all-Portlaoise affair with both club sides competing for honours, ensuring that regardless of the outcome the trophy would be making the journey home to Portlaoise.

Under 14 Football

U14 football Feile final: Graiguecullen 6-8 to Portlaoise 1-1. Championship final: Graiguecullen 2-9 to Portlaoise 0-3.

U14 “C” Football Championshipfinal: Park/Ratheniska 6-7 to Portlaoise 3-4.

Under 12 Football

U12 Football Championshipfinal: Portlaoise 0-7 to Mountmellick 1-4. (Draw). Replay: Mountmellick 1-10 to Portlaoise 1-4 (AET).

U12 “C” Football Championshipfinal: Ballyfin 0-10 to Portlaoise “B” 0-9.

Ladies Under 12

U12: Sarsfields 5-6 to Portlaoise 0-1.

Under 12 Hurling

U12 “C” HC final: Portlaoise 4-3 to Kyle 1-3.

CBS beat Knockbeg

Portlaoise CBS qualified for the final of the South Leinster Junior Football Championship by beating Knockbeg College 1-9 to 0-9 in Carlow in February.

The CBS went on to beat Good Council in the final by 2-9 to 1- 10. A late scoring flurry by Rory O’Connor which yielded 1-1 turned the game in favour of the CBS.

In the Leinster semi-final Portlaoise had to dig deep to earn a replay against St. Mels of Longford on a 2-8 to 0-14 scoreline. Ricky Maher and Rory O’Connor scored the goals.

Scoil Chriost Ri

Portlaoise snatch late winner Scoiol Chriost Ri secured the Leinster Junior “A” ladies title with a late winning point from team captain Shona Barry. It was breath-taking stuff before the Portlaoise side emerged 4-9 to 5-5 winners over Cnoc Mhuire Granard at Kilbeggan. Two second half goals from Shelly Delaney proved vital in the win.

In the All-Ireland semi-final the Portlaoise school came up against a superior Presentation Castleisland team losing on a 2-6 to 0-4 scoreline.

2006 honours

• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois Under 21 Footballer of the Year Cahir Healy
• Men’s Football – Under 11 Laois U-11 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-11 v 0-7 Stradbally Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-8 v 0-7 St Joseph’s/ Barrowhouse Captain: Cahir Healy
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘C’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise ‘B’ 4-3 v 1-3 Kyle
• Ladies Football – Intermediate Laois Ladies Intermediate Championship Portlaoise 2-10 v 1-2 St. Conleth’s
• Ladies Football – Intermediate Laois Ladies Intermediate League Portlaoise 4-6 v 1-8 Park Ratheniska
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Ladies Féile Peil International U-14 (Birmingham)
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-9 v 2-2 St. Conleth’s
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 3-11 v 2-4 Sarsfields
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 5-4 v 2-1 Sarsfields

AGM

In his secretary’s report to the AGM, Peter O’Neill slammed Laois County Board for forcing the club to play three senior football championship games in a week in 2006 and said that no apology would be made for the stance the club took earlier in the year when they opted not to play St. Josephs in the opening round of the championship.

Cahir Healy won the Laois GAA Award for U21 football for 2006. Mick O’Dwyer announced his decision to resign as Laois football manager. News broke in October that Zach Tuohy was off to Oz. And what a great adventure that turned out to be! The floodlights were turned on for the first time for a game at O’Moore Park for the NFL league tie between Laois and Galway on Saturday February 7th. A late point by Portlaoise’s Brian “Bruno” McCormack was sufficient to see Galway off on an 0-8 to 0-7 scoreline and so make it an extra special night for local supporters.

Laois senior footballers reached the provincial final but found the Dubs too good on a 3-14 to 1-14 scoreline. Colm Parkinson was Laois’ best player, while Brian McCormack also starred. “Woolly” also won the Leinster Express/Lismard Autoworld Sports Star for July. The Laois dream finally died a few weeks later when Derry stopped them in the Qualifiers by 1-18 to 2-11 at Breffni Park. This time “Bruno” won the Man of the Match Award.

Laois U21s retained their Leinster title, winning back-to-back titles for the first time and joining Meath and Kildare at the top of winners in the province in the grade. They beat Offaly 0-13 to 1-7 on Saturday April 11th at O’Moore Park. The team included team captain, Cahir Healy, and Craig Rogers in their lineout. The O’Moore county went on to oust reigning champions Mayo by 0-11 to 0-6 in the All-Ireland semi-final played at Roscommon. In the final Laois were unlucky to be beaten by Cork.

In the Leinster MFC quarter-final, Laois were denied of outright success by an incredible strong finish by Dublin whose star forward, Ted Furman, landed three points in injury time. But justice was done in the replay which, with home advantage, Laois won by 2-12 to 1-3. Laois won the final against Carlow by 3-8 to 1-12 after a hard fought game. Portlaoise players included Kieran Lillis, Conor Boyle, Zach Tuohy and Brian Smith. They beat Roscommon by 1-13 to 1-11 in the quarterfinal. Apart from the Portlaoise regulars who played in the earlier rounds, Brian Seale and Brian Glynn were brought on as subs in this game. Laois came back from the dead to rescue a draw against Derry in the semi-final. Portlaoise’s own, Zach Tuohy shot a fantastic goal in injury time in Croke Park to force a replay. Zach, indeed shot both Laois goals and added a point from a “45”. Derry came up trumps in the replay by 4-7 to 1-11.

Zach won the Sports Star of the Month Award for August. The game was an ill-tempered affair and Laois fans felt aggrieved with some of the referee’s (Frank Flynn from Leitrim) decisions. Laois GAA Chairman, Dick Miller, received an eight week ban as a result of a post-match confrontation with the referee.

In the Leinster Senior HurlingC Offaly beat Laois by 1-26 to 0-10. The U21 hurlers fared much better going under by a mere five points to Kilkenny on a 1-18 to 1-13 scoreline.

Laois ladies lost the All-Ireland senior semi-final to Cork on a 4-14 to 0-6 scoreline.

Club Plans to Relocate

2007 marked one of the most significant turning points in the history of Portlaoise GAA Club as plans were unveiled for the club to relocate from its historic Fr. Browne Avenue grounds to a new state-of-the-art complex at Rathleague.

At the 2007 AGM the Relocation Development Committee's report was unanimously accepted by members. Planning applications were lodged for both the commercial redevelopment of Fr. Browne Avenue and the construction of the new facilities at Rathleague. Builders, architects, engineers and pitch consultants were appointed as the project moved into its implementation phase.

In the Leinster Express edition of 17 January 2007, the front page revealed that Portlaoise GAA Club had agreed a landmark €19 million deal for the sale of its playing facilities at Fr. Browne Avenue.

The purchasers, Cork-based Firestone Developments, proposed a major retail and residential development for the seventeen-acre town centre site.

At the same time, the club announced the purchase of a 38-acre site at Rathleague, a move which would secure the future growth and long-term development of Portlaoise GAA.

The land purchase reportedly cost approximately €6 million, while development of the new facilities was estimated at a further €10 million.

Ambitions for the new grounds were enormous, with plans aimed at creating what many believed would become the finest GAA club facilities anywhere in Ireland.

Public interest in the redevelopment grew rapidly throughout the year, with frequent headlines documenting progress and speculation surrounding the future of both the Fr. Browne Avenue site and the new Rathleague development.

On 13 June 2007, the Leinster Express again carried the story prominently on its front page under the headline "€200m revamp for GAA site", referring to the estimated scale of the planned redevelopment at Fr. Browne Avenue.

The announcement signalled the beginning of a new era for Portlaoise GAA Club, one which would eventually transform the club's facilities, infrastructure and future ambitions for generations to come.

Senior Football - Beginning of 9 in a Row

Portlaoise collected their 25th title “with the kind of ease that only Kerry or Kilkenny seem to be able to do on the big days”. Steven Miller of the Leinster Express added: “In time honoured Portlaoise fashion they peaked when it mattered most …”. Portlaoise won by ten points and could have won by much more. They kicked 15 wides and missed three golden goal chances. Bruno had his team ahead in the opening minute and Colm Parkinson sent over another seconds later. It was all one way traffic after that.

Although Stradbally closed the gap coming up to the break, it only prompted Portlaoise to raise the game again. Cahir Healy and Colm Parkinson were exceptional on a good day for the “Town”. Manager was Karl Lenihan.

Final: Portlaoise 1-14 to Stradbally 0-7.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 0-7 to Arles-Killeen 0-7. A late point by Donie Brennan snatched a draw for Arles-Killeen. Portlaoise 1- 16 to Clonaslee/St. Manmans 0-4. Portlaoise 1-14 to Portarlington 1-6. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-8 to O’Dempseys 1-6. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-10 to Mountmellick 1-7.

Leinster championship

Portlaoise beat St. Patricks (Louth) in the first game in the Leinster Club Championship by 1-14 to 0-5. The semi-final proved a shocker, however, because Portlaoise went in favourites against St. Vincents but were routed 3-13 to 1-8 at Parnell Park. The game was well and truly alive at the break with Vincents leading by 2-3 to 1-5 and the “Town” were hanging in until the final quarter. But Vincents finished strongly and scored 1-6 in the final ten minutes to pull away in the end. The loss of Zach Touhy through a severe red card did not help the Portlaoise cause.

ACFL Division One

Despite fielding minus such stars as Colm Parkinson, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Cahir Healy, Aidan Fennelly and Craig Rogers, the “Town” side was never really tested in the final against The Heath winning by 3-11 to 1-8.

Senior Hurling

Final: Camross 5-9 to Portlaoise 2-11.

After an outstanding campaign in which the ‘Town’ side showed their class, the final proved to be a disappointment against the ‘auld enemy’ Camross. A combination of poor options and some harsh decisions by the referee helped give Camross a commanding lead in the opening half. Despite a game team effort and some brilliant individual performances the ‘Town’ came up short at the end.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 5-12 to Castletown 1-7. Portlaoise 2- 14 to Kilcotton 0-12. Portlaoise 1-15 to Rathdowney/Errill 1-15. (A point by Eoin Browne in injury time earned a draw for the “Town”). Portlaoise 0-11 to The Harps 2-12. Portlaoise 3-12 to Ballyfin 1-11. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 2-16 to Tinnahinch 1-9. Semi-final: Portlaoise 3-14 to Clough/Ballacolla 2-6.

Leinster League Senior Hurling: Portlaoise 2-10 to Mooncoin (Kilkenny) 2- 11.

Kilmacud Crokes 7s

Portlaoise hurlers reached the semi-final of the Kilmacud Crokes All-Ireland 7-a-side in August. Having disposed of Garryspillane (Limerick), Garda College and Naomh Olaf (Dublin) in the earlier rounds they beat Eyrecourt 6-2 to 3-7 in the quarter-final. Sarsfield from Cork proved too good in the semi-final.

Intermediate Hurling

Camross 4-15 to Portlaoise 0-10. Abbeyleix 1-16 to Portlaoise 2- 11. Abbeyleix 1-16 to Portlaoise 2-11. Portlaoise 2-11 to Shanahoe 1-14. Portlaoise 1-10 to Rathdowney/Errill 1-16.

Intermediate Football

Courtwood 0-15 to Portlaoise 1-9. Park/Ratheniska 0-9 to Portlaoise 0-8. Annanough 1-9 to Portlaoise 2-5. Kilcavan 3-14 to Portlaoise 2-11.

Junior Hurling

“B”: Portlaoise 0-12 to Timahoe 0-10. Portlaoise 2-5 to Ballypickas 0-14.

Junior Football

“B”: Portlaoise 0-12 to Killeshin 0-7. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-4 to Ballylinan 0-8.

Three in a Row for Under 21 Footballers

Portlaoise secured a third consecutive county title following a hard-earned victory over neighbours The Heath.

The much delayed final, played in Timahoe on 11 December 2008, saw Portlaoise emerge victorious on a 0-9 to 0-7 scoreline after a fiercely contested encounter.

The success represented Portlaoise's ninth title in the grade in just twelve years and further underlined the club's extraordinary strength at underage level during this era.

The Heath suffered a major setback in the opening half when Cathal Óg Greene was sent off and the numerical advantage proved important as Portlaoise used the extra player effectively to limit the influence of danger man Daithi Carroll.

Adrian Kelly excelled in midfield while Craig Rogers and Zach Tuohy provided the attacking threat that helped carry Portlaoise over the line.

Earlier results: Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-10 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-6. Semi-Final: St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 0-7 to Portlaoise 0-7. (Abandoned) Portlaoise 3-11 to St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 0-7. (Played December 2008).

Under 21 Hurling

Preliminary round: Abbeyleix/Ballypickas 3-8 to Portlaoise 3-6.

Minor Football Double and Historic First Ladies Minor Title

Portlaoise Ladies won their first Minor Championship title in club history in 2007 to complete a first double of mens and ladies minor football wins in Laois.

The men's minor footballers regained county honours in emphatic fashion by defeating Stradbally Parish Gaels in the county final.

Having lost to the same opposition earlier in the championship and also in the previous year's final, Portlaoise responded in outstanding style to claim victory on a dominant 2-14 to 0-3 scoreline.

Earlier results: Stradbally Parish Gaels 2-5 to Portlaoise 0-9. Portlaoise 0-10 to Graiguecullen 0-6.

MFC “B”: Portlaoise 0-10 to Tinnahinch 1-10.

Success later followed for the Portlaoise Ladies side who booked their place in the county final with an impressive 4-8 to 1-5 semi-final victory over Timahoe/Ballyroan.

In the final, Portlaoise edged out Sarsfields by 1-5 to 1-4 in a thrilling contest to secure the club's historic first Ladies Minor title.

Minor Hurling

St. Fintan’s/Raheen 1-12 to Portlaoise 2-8.

Four in a Row for Under 16 Ladies

Portlaoise Ladies continued their remarkable run in 2007 by securing a fourth consecutive Under 16 championship title.

In the 2007 county final, Portlaoise edged out Sarsfields on a 1-5 to 1-4 scoreline in another hard-fought and memorable championship decider.

The run began in 2004 when Portlaoise defeated Shanahoe by 4-7 to 0-6 to claim the first title in the sequence.

In 2005, Portlaoise retained the championship with aconvincing 4-4 to 0-4 victory over Sarsfields.

A third consecutive title followed in 2006 when Portlaoise again overcame Sarsfields, this time by 5-4 to 2-1.

All-Ireland Féile Glory for Under 14 Ladies

2007 marked one of the greatest achievements in the history of Portlaoise Ladies Football as the club's Under 14 side captured the All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg Division 2 Cup.

Representing Laois for the fifth consecutive year, Portlaoise travelled to a newly revamped Carrick-on-Shannon for the national Féile finals, with St. Brigid's of Roscommon serving as host club.

Portlaoise produced an outstanding display in the final to defeat Tyrone representatives Cill Iseal by 4-6 to 0-2 and claim All-Ireland honours.

Rachel Conroy captained the side to a famous victory as Portlaoise delivered a composed and dominant performance on one of the biggest stages in juvenile ladies football.

The team mentors who guided the group to national success were Pat Leogue, Phil O'Keeffe, Seamus Heaney, Ann Smith and Pauline Moran.

Under 14 Football

Final: Portlaoise 5-10 to Graiguecullen 2-3.

Féile football final: Portlaoise 3-6 to Mountmellick 3-5.

Five in a Row for Under 14 Ladies

Portlaoise Ladies Under 14 side completed an incredible five consecutive championship titles.Portlaoise were awarded the 2007 Under 14 Championship.

The five-in-a-row sequence began in 2003 when Portlaoise defeated Sarsfields by 4-8 to 3-4 to secure the club's first title in the run.

In 2004, Portlaoise produced a dominant display to overcome Ballyroan by 7-8 to 1-3 and successfully retain the championship.

The 2005 final saw another emphatic performance as Portlaoise defeated St. Conleths by 4-15 to 0-2 to continue their remarkable streak.

Portlaoise claimed a fourth consecutive title in 2006 after defeating St. Conleth's by 3-9 to 2-2 in another high-quality county final.

Under 12 Hurling

Final: Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton 2-3 to Portlaoise 1-3.

Under 12 Football

Final: Portlaoise 1-12 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1- 4.

CBS

Portlaoise CBS bowed out to Knockbeg College by 1-8 to 0-7 in the SFC at Ratheniska.

2007 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor Footballer of the Year Zach Tuohy
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Brian McCormack
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-14 v 0-3 Stradbally Parish Gaels Captain: Brian Smith
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-14 v 0-7 Stradbally Captain: Eoin Bland
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-12 v 1-4 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 5-10 v 2-3 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Division 1 League Portlaoise v O'Dempsey's
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-6 v 3-5 Mountmellick
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-9 v 0-7 The Heath Gaels Captain: Paul Cotter
• Ladies Football – Minor Laois Ladies Minor ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-5 v 1-4 Sarsfield’s
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise v Awarded
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Division 2 Cup Portlaoise 4-6 v 0-2 Cill Iseal (Tyrone)
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-5 v 1-4 Sarsfields

AGM

Relocation Plans Put on Hold

2008 brought one of the most difficult and uncertain periods in the modern history of Portlaoise GAA Club as ambitious relocation and redevelopment plans suffered a major setback.

In February 2008 Laois County Council granted planning permission for both developments. The club proceeded with the purchase of the Rathleague lands after a third-party appeal was lodged with An Bord Pleanála against the Fr. Browne Avenue project. To facilitate the purchase, approximately €6.5 million was advanced to the club.

On 19 December 2008 An Bord Pleanála refused planning permission for the Fr. Browne Avenue redevelopment.

"PORTLAOISE GAA IN TURMOIL"
In the edition of the Leinster Express published on 31 December 2008, the front page carried the devastating news that An Bord Pleanála had refused planning permission for the proposed redevelopment of the club grounds at Fr. Browne Avenue.

The decision centred largely on concerns that the proposed retail and residential development would negatively impact the vitality of Portlaoise town centre's existing retail core, while concerns were also raised regarding the amount of parking spaces included within the project.

An appeal against the development had originally been lodged by the Kylebrook Residents Association, who expressed concerns regarding traffic congestion and public safety arising from a proposed exit onto the Abbeyleix Road.

Although the planning board's decision focused mainly on retail and parking concerns, reference was also made to the potential traffic hazards that could arise from on-street parking surrounding the proposed development.

The refusal represented a massive blow to the club, particularly as work had already commenced on the new 38-acre development at Rathleague.

Prior to the refusal, the proposed Fr. Browne Avenue redevelopment had been expected to generate an estimated €350 million investment into the local economy, alongside hundreds of construction and long-term employment opportunities.

Despite the setback, Portlaoise GAA Club continued to thrive on the playing field, even while carrying areported €6.5 million liability linked to borrowing undertaken for the Rathleague development.

The financial challenge would remain over the club for several years and required extraordinary work behind the scenes from the club's Development Sub-Committee, led by club treasurer John Hanniffy.

Through determination, expertise and cooperation involving the club, developers Firestone, the banking institutions, Croke Park and other stakeholders, the situation was eventually resolved in 2014.

The period became one of the defining tests in the club's history, but Portlaoise emerged from the storm with Rathleague continuing to develop into one of the premier GAA club facilities in Ireland.

Above all, the crisis demonstrated the resilience, loyalty and community spirit of Portlaoise GAA Club as members rallied together to secure the future of the club during one of its most challenging eras.

Senior Football

Portlaoise had little difficulty in disposing of a weak Timahoe challenge in the final on a 2-14 to 1-7 scoreline. It was touch and go in the opening half and Portlaoise led by three points at the break.

But a Timahoe penalty immediately on the restart was converted neatly by Willie Lalor and the Round Tower men were right back in the game seeking only their second title. But that was as good as it got for them as the Town men powered back into the lead and a goal from Peter McNulty at the three quarter stage restored the initiative to the Town. A second Portlaoise goal, this time from Kieran Lillis, put the icing on the cake for a comfortable win.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 1-6 to Stradbally 0-7. Portlaoise 1-9 to The Heath 0-6. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-14 to Stradbally 2-8. Semi-final: Portlaoise 0-12 to Mountmellick 0-6.

Leinster Championship

Portlaoise lost the opening game in the Leinster club championship to Rhode (Offaly) by 2-9 to 1-10. Two first half goals by full-forward, Paschal Keelaghan, and Niall Darby left the Offaly men leading by 2-5 to 0-4 at the break and they held out under intense pressure from the Laois champions.

ACFL Division 1

In the Div. One league final, Portlaoise were well on top and were leading by 2-7 to 0-4 when the contest was brought to a precautionary halt when an O’Dempsey player was injured. The Town made no mistake in the replay winning by 1-10 to 1-6.

Senior Hurling

In one of the classic finals and the most exciting and skilful game in the county for many years, Portlaoise were denied the title for the second year running by the referee’s harsh verdict in the fourth minute of injury time. After an enthralling encounter, all in the park had presumed that the game had ended in a draw, a fitting result for both teams. But incredibly he awarded a dubious free forty metres out to the Rathdowney/Errill men and even they could hardly believe their good fortune. This was not one that got away but was whipped away by the man in the middle, an official who had presided over a most sporting and thrilling affair capably up to that moment of disbelief. Both teams earned and deserved a second chance. But Portlaoise were denied it! On a scoreline of 1-19 to 2-15.

Earlier results: SHC: Portlaoise 2-17 to Mountrath 3-12. Portlaoise 1-17 to Tinnahinch 1-9. Portlaoise 1-19 to Castletown 0- 9. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-20 to Clough/Ballacolla 2-9.

Intermediate Hurling

Portlaoise 0-16 to Clough/Ballacolla 3-7. Rathdowney/Errill 2-17 to Portlaoise 0-10.

Intermediate Football

A hat-trick of goals in the opening half by key forward, John Kelly, secured Park/Ratheniska’s route to the final. Some slack marking was punished by Kelly and his team led by 3-5 to 0-5. But Portlaoise fought back and were still well in the hunt and within striking distance when the referee sounded the final whistle. Park/Ratheniska 3-10 to Portlaoise 2-10.

Earlier results: Courtwood 1-7 to Portlaoise 0-9. Portlaoise 3-5 to Kilcavan 2-6. Portlaoise 1-6 to Barrowhouse 0-5.

Junior "B" Hurling

Portlaoise 4-11 to Abbeyleix 1-13. Semi-final: Camross 3-11 to Portlaoise 0-5.

Junior C Football Championship Success

Portlaoise captured only their second ever Junior C Football Championship in 2008.

The Town side completed an impressive campaign with a strong 2-10 to 0-8 victory over Ballyfin in the county final, finishing eight points clear of their opponents.

Portlaoise showed consistency throughout the championship campaign, beginning with a 0-10 to 0-6 victory over Ballylinan before recording a convincing 5-9 to 1-9 win against The Heath.

In the semi-final, Portlaoise continued their strong form with a disciplined 0-11 to 0-4 victory over St. Joseph's to secure their place in the decider.

Junior B: Portlaoise 2-9 to Mountrath 2-8. Quarter-final: Arles/Killeen 0-9 to Portlaoise 0-6.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise bowed out to great rivals Stradbally Parish Gaels at the quarter-final stage. Results: Portlaoise 4-9 to Graiguecullen 2- 6. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 0-12 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 2-6. (Draw). Replay: Stradbally Gaels 2-6 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Under 21 Hurling

The Nationalist (Pat Delaney) reported:

“Five years ago a very impressive Portlaoise under 16 hurling team drew with Borris/Kilcotton in the county final and in the replay Portlaoise won comfortably. Last Thursday, the corresponding under 21 team took on the Harps but only two players remained from that team and on the evidence here the Town need to have a serious examination of the state of hurling. Seven years ago they captured their last minor title and in the same year appeared in the last under 21 final losing to Castletown. At senior level they are playing well but should be concerned at this level.”

One must say that appeared to be a well-founded criticism. The Harps won by 2-16 to 0-7 having led by 0-8 to 0-2 at the break. Despite having one of the games stars in full-back, Darren Murphy, the Harps won as they liked and could afford the luxury of experimenting with some new players before the end.

Minor Football Double for Men and Ladies

Portlaoise enjoyed another minor football championship double across both the men's and ladies grades.

The men's minor footballers secured county honours with a solid and disciplined 1-12 to 1-7 victory over The Heath Gaels in the championship final.

Kieran Lillis played a key role early in the game, supplying a clever pass to Eoin Beere who finished expertly to the net in the opening quarter and set Portlaoise firmly on course for victory.

Portlaoise led 1-4 to 0-0 at the end of the first quarter and extended their advantage to 1-5 to 0-3 by half-time. Although The Heath mounted a brief rally after the restart, the Portlaoise defence and midfield gradually regained control as the challenge faded.

Earlier games: Quarter-final: Portlaoise 0-21 to Graiguecullen 0- 3. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-15 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-4.

Success followed for the Portlaoise Ladies side who captured the Ladies Minor Championship title with a strong 3-8 to 1-5 victory over Ballylinan-Killeen in the county final.

Minor Hurling

In the semi-final Portlaoise just failed to Camross by 1-5 to 0-7. Camross full-back, Lorcan Burke, came out with a dashing run from his own defence and was hauled down fifty metres from goal. This was steeped in controversy as Portlaoise fans felt sure that Burke had, indeed, caught the ball three times and that the free should have been given the other way. The ref’s (Martin Fitzpatrick, Kilcotton) controversial call resulted in a Camross victory that many claim should not have been.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 1-12 to Abbeyleix/Ballypickas 1-11. Portlaoise 2-20 to Castletown/Slieve Bloom/Ballyfin 3-11. Camross 2-7 to Portlaoise 0-6. Portlaoise 3-15 to Clough/Ballacolla 1-8. Quarter-final:Portlaoise 2-12 to Borris/Kilcotton 1-8.

First Under 16 Ladies League Title

Portlaoise Ladies secured its first ever Under 16 Ladies League title in 2008.

Portlaoise produced an outstanding attacking display in the final to defeat Sarsfields by 4-13 to 2-6 and capture league honours in impressive fashion.

Championship Final: Portlaoise were convincingly defeated by Sarsfields in the final by 5-3 to 0-7.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise lost to Graiguecullen by 2-6 to 1-6 in the Under 16 football final.

In the U16 Div One league final, Graiguecullen also beat Portlaoise 4-12 to 3-7.

Under 14 Football and Hurling Championship and Féile Double

Portlaouse under 14s secured Under 14 championship, league and Féile honours across both football and hurling.

The Under 14 hurlers captured the championship title with a dominant 7-10 to 2-5 victory over The Harps Gaels in the county final.

The same squad went on to win the county Féile na nGael final and completed the hurling treble by winning the Division One League Final, defeating Rathdowney/Errill by 4-11 to 3-4.

The National Féile na nGael finals were hosted in Laois and Offaly for only the second time and Portlaoise made full use of home advantage by reaching the Division 2 Final.

Although Belfast side St. John's proved too strong in the decider, Portlaoise's journey to the final represented another major achievement for the group.

Portlaoise had previously captured Féile na nGael national honours in 1980, 1981 and 1993.

Success continued on the football field where the Portlaoise Under 14 footballers swept to another championship title following an emphatic 8-14 to 0-2 victory over Tinnahinch in the county final.

The footballers also secured Féile honours by defeating Stradbally by 4-17 to 1-1 in the Féile Peil na nÓg Final.

Under 12 Football

Final: Stradbally Parish Gaels 3-7 to Portlaoise 1-11.

AGM

Cahir Healy was named as Footballer of the Year for 2008 and Brian Glynn won the award for 2009. Niall Rigney began his first full year as manager of the Laois senior hurling team.

Brian ‘Bruno’ McCormack named as captain of the Laois senior football team. Football star, Colm Parkinson, announced his transfer to Dublin club, Parnells. It was seen as a major blow to Portlaoise’s prospects of winning a third SF title in a row.

Laois were beaten 0-12 to 0-9 by Dublin in Leinster U21 FC final.

Club Continues Fight Following Planning Refusal

The fallout from An Bord Pleanála's refusal of planning permission for the Fr. Browne Avenue redevelopment continued into 2009, bringing major uncertainty to Portlaoise GAA Club's ambitious relocation project.

The proposed development had been expected to realise approximately €19 million towards funding the major new facilities at Rathleague and the refusal represented asevere setback to the club's long-term plans.

In response to the decision, Portlaoise Town Council unanimously expressed their disappointment and formally backed the club's efforts to complete the Rathleague development at their January meeting in County Hall.

Club officials also began crucial discussions with senior GAA figures in Croke Park as efforts intensified to map out a path forward following the planning refusal.

A five-man Portlaoise delegation consisting of chairman Vincent Dowling, secretary Peter O'Neill, treasurer John Hanniffy, development committee member Jim Gaynor and club trustee Teddy Fennelly attended meetings at Croke Park.

Present on behalf of the GAA were Director General Páraic Duffy, Financial Controller Tom Ryan, Leinster Council chairman Seamus Howlin, Leinster secretary Michael Delaney, alongside Laois representatives Brian Allen and Dick Miller.

During the meeting, Portlaoise outlined the full extent of the club's situation and updated officials on the challenges facing the Rathleague project.

The club had previously indicated that financial support from Croke Park might be required in order to continue development work at Rathleague and discussions around potential funding formed part of the wider conversations.

Peter O'Neill later described the meeting as “very cordial”, although no immediate decisions were reached and further meetings were planned in the weeks that followed.

Despite the uncertainty and financial pressure facing the club, Portlaoise remained determined to continue pursuing the Rathleague development and secure the long-term future of the club.

The period represented one of the most challenging off-field chapters in the club's history, but it also highlighted the resilience, unity and determination that would ultimately help Portlaoise emerge stronger in the years ahead.

Pat Critchley Inducted into Leinster GAA Hall of Fame

In 2009, one of Portlaoise GAA Club's greatest ever hurlers, Pat Critchley, received one of the highest honours in the Association when he was inducted into the GAA Hall of Fame.

Widely regarded as one of the finest hurlers ever to represent both Portlaoise and Laois, Critchley enjoyed aremarkable career spanning several decades and became one of the most respected figures in Laois hurling.

A dominant midfield presence throughout his playing days, Pat Critchley was central to many of Portlaoise's greatest successes and earned enormous admiration for his skill, leadership, toughness and consistency.

His induction into the Hall of Fame recognised not only his outstanding achievements on the field but also his enormous contribution to the development and promotion of hurling within Portlaoise and throughout Laois.

The honour represented a proud moment for the entire club as one of its true legends received national recognition for a lifetime devoted to Gaelic Games.

Seventh Leinster Senior Football Title

2009 proved another glorious year for Portlaoise football as the club secured both the Laois Senior Football Championship and a magnificent seventh Leinster Club title.

Portlaoise first completed a three in a row of county titles and captured a 27th senior crown overall by defeating Arles-Kilcruise by 1-9 to 0-8 in the county final.

Although the sides were level at half-time, Portlaoise raised the tempo after the restart and gradually took control. A crucial penalty awarded for a foul on Colm Byrne was calmly converted by Paul Cahillane to secure victory for the Town side.

Brian McCormack, Adrian Kelly and Zach Tuohy were influential throughout while manager John Mulligan guided the side to another county triumph.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 5-9 to Mountmellick 0-6. Portlaoise 2-14 to Arles-Killeen 2-7. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 4-14 to Portarlington 2-9. Semi-final: Portlaoise 3-18 to St. Josephs 1-9.

The Leinster campaign began with a devastating victory over Louth champions Mattock Rangers, before Portlaoise followed up with another impressive win against Senchalstown of Meath.

A Leinster semi-final against Clara of Offaly was abandoned because of severe weather conditions before Portlaoise comfortably won the replay by 1-9 to 0-3.

In the provincial final Portlaoise produced one of the great performances in the club's history, defeating Westmeath champions Garrycastle by 1-9 to 1-5.

The Leinster Express described the display as Portlaoise “at their very best” as the Town side showed immense character, courage and footballing quality to overcome outstanding opposition.

Matters became even more difficult when Portlaoise were reduced to fourteen men for the entire second half and Garrycastle quickly found the net after the restart to cut the deficit to a single point.

However, with Cahir Healy producing a superb defensive performance on Dessie Dolan, Kevin Fitzpatrick excelling at the back, Brian McCormack driving the team forward and Aidan Fennelly hugely influential around midfield, Portlaoise weathered the storm brilliantly.

A superb Barry Fitzgerald goal, created instantly after Garrycastle had scored, proved a defining moment and inspired Portlaoise towards another historic provincial triumph.

ACFL Division 1

In the ACFL Div One final, Portlaoise and Stradbally played a draw at 0-12 to 1-9. In the replay Portlaoise just shaded the verdict on a 1-8 to 0-10 score line. A late late goal by Craig Rogers, who was introduced on the restart, snatched the title from Stradbally’s grasp.

Senior Hurling

In the final, Portlaoise were slow out of the traps and paid the price when going under by 2-13 to 1-10 to a Clough/Ballacolla team winning their first county senior title. The new champs had the better of the opening half. Willie Hyland’s close-in free crashed into the net courtesy of an upright which established their superiority on the scoreboard early on. A second goal from a penalty late in the half left them firmly in the driving seat leading by 2-8 to 0-5 at half-time.

Portlaoise threw everything at them on the restart but a dogged Ballacolla defence held out for their first title in the grade. It was a disappointing result for the team losing their third final on the trot and for the mentors, Bro. Philip Ryan and Pat Critchley, who both stepped down after the game.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 6-18 to Tinnahinch 1-13. Portlaoise 1-15 to Colt 0-15. Castletown 1-14 to Portlaoise 0-15. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-14 to The Harps 0-12. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-18 to Castletown 3-9.

Intermediate Football

Results: Portlaoise 1-11 to Kilcavan 0-6.Clonaslee/St. Manmans 1-8 to Portlaoise 0-7. Killeshin 1-12 to Portlaoise 2-7.

Junior Football “B”

Quarter final Arles-Killeen 1-10 to Portlaoise 1-8.

Junior Football “C”

Portlaoise took this title on a replay in the final against Shamrocks.

Results: Portlaoise 2-13 to St. Josephs 0-5. Semifinal, Portlaoise 0-13 to Portarlington 0-12.

Final: Portlaoise 0-10 to Shamrocks 1-7. Portlaoise won the replay by 1-11 to 1-7. Daniel O’Neill scored 1-6 (0-3 from frees) of the Portlaoise total.

Junior "A" Hurling

Quarter-final: Rathdowney 1-15 to Portlaoise 1-10.

Under 21 football

Portlaoise won the opening round against Stradbally Parish Gaels 0-11 to 0-6. The Town were trailing by 0-11 to 0-7 in the quarter-final against Mountmellick with only four minutes remaining. The Leinster Express report summed it up as follows “Mountmellick, believing that they had it all done, took their foot off the pedal”. Not the wisest move against a club like Portlaoise, who are famed for their finishing prowess. Suddenly the Town lit up and a great goal by Brian Glynn and then a point from the same player had the sides level. Brian Smith shot the winner in injury time.

Result: Portlaoise 1-9 to Mountmellick 0-11.

But after that breath-taking victory, the Town were surprisingly ousted by a workmanlike Ballylinan- Glenmore side 3-6 to 0-12 in the semi-final.

Under 21 Hurling

The competition was run on a knockout basis. Portlaoise were drawn against a very strong Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton side in the first round and despite their best efforts just lost out.

Minor Hurling

Semi-final: Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton 1-15 to Portlaoise 3-6.

Minor Football

Semi-final: Stradbally Parish Gaels 2-8 to Portlaoise 0-6.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise won the Under 16 football final by 2-17 to 0-7 against Stradbally Parish Gaels.

Under 16 Football League final: O’Dempseys 3-8 to Portlaoise ‘A’ 2-9.

First Under 16 Camogie Shield Title

2009 marked another important milestone for Portlaoise Camogie as the club captured its first ever Under 16 Camogie Shield title. This was the first piece of silverware for the camogie section since the Junior B Championship win in 1995.

While details of the final opposition and scoreline are unfortunately unknown at present, the success represented a significant achievement for the growing camogie section within the club.

The victory highlighted the steady development of juvenile camogie in Portlaoise and reflected the hard work and dedication of players, mentors and volunteers involved in building the game within the club during this period.

Fourth Féile na nGael National Title

Portlaoise captured its fourth Féile na nGael national title in 2009.

In the Division 2 Final played in Tullamore, Portlaoise delivered an outstanding display to defeat St. Patrick's of Portaferry by 4-6 to 1-4 and secure national honours.

Gary Bergin was the standout performer on the day, producing a magnificent scoring display as he finished with 3-3, accounting for all but one point from play for Portlaoise.

The Leinster Express described the scenes after the final whistle as ecstatic as powerful full-back Ciaran McEvoy accepted the trophy from GAA President Christy Cooney.

In the championship Kilcotton/Borris-in-Ossory beat Portlaoise in the (U14) final by 1-8 to 0-4.

The U14 hurlers turned the tables on Borris/Kilcotton in the league final winning by 2-11 to 0-7.

Third Féile Peil na nÓg National Title

2009 proved another extraordinary year for Portlaoise juvenile football as the club's Under 14 footballers captured a third Féile Peil na nÓg national title and a three in a row of Laois Féile wins.

Portlaoise first secured county championship honours with a commanding 5-12 to 0-5 victory over Killeshin in the Féile Peile na nÓg Final.

The team later travelled to Kildare for the Féile Peil na nÓg national finals where they added another famous title to the club's proud Féile history.

In the national final, Portlaoise produced another outstanding performance to defeat Monaleen of Limerick by 5-4 to 0-3 and secure All-Ireland honours.

The management team guiding the side to success consisted of J.P. Cahillane, Tom Prendergast and Mick Mulhall.

The victory came just two weeks after the Portlaoise hurlers had captured the Féile na nGael national title, leading to huge celebrations throughout the club.

The footballers completed a remarkable clean sweep by also capturing the league title with a 4-9 to 2-5 victory over Killeshin in the final.

Under 12 Hurling

Final: Ballyfin/Mountmellick 0-4 to Portlaoise 0-3.

Under 12 Football

Final: Portlaoise 4-10 to Graiguecullen 3-6. (AET).

In the league final Portlaoise beat Ballyfin/Mountmellick 5-3 to 1-4.

In the U12 “B” final Clonad beat Portlaoise 5-6 to 3-7.

CBS Results

SFC ‘B’ Semi-final: Gorey CS 1-14 to Portlaoise CBS 2-10. North Leinster U14 hurling final: Portlaoise CBS 2-5 to Mullingar CBS 1-7. Leinster U14 HC Semi-final: Colaiste Eoin 1-12 to Portlaoise CBS 2-2.

2009 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Brian Glynn
• Men’s Football – Junior Junior ‘C’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-10 v 1-7 Shamrocks (Castletown) Captain: Gary McCormack
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 2-7 v 0-4 O'Dempsey's
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-9 v 0-8 Arles/Kilcruise Captain: Brian McCormack
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-10 v 3-6 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 7-19 v 1-5 Killeshin Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Division 1 League Portlaoise 4-9 v 2-5 Killeshin
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Féile Peil na nÓg Div 3 Football Portlaoise 5-4 v 0-3 Monaleen
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 5-12 v 0-5 Killeshin
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-17 v 0-7 Stradbally Parish Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise 3-8 v 2-9 O'Dempsey's
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 Hurling Division 1 League Portlaoise 2-11 v 0-7 Kilcotton/Borris-in-Ossory
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Féile na nGael Division 2 Portlaoise 4-6 v 1-4 Portaferry
• Camogie – Under 16 Laois Camogie U-16 Shield