AGM

The tragic death of club football star, Peter McNulty, in late September was received with great shock and profound regret by all Portlaoise fans and by the GAA community nationwide. (See Special Tribute elsewhere in the book)

Portlaoise GAA also mourned the death of their great bard, Tom Flynn in July 2010. He celebrated many of the Town’s famous victories in song and verse.

Niall Rigney was appointed manager to one of Kilkenny’s top clubs, James Stephens. Paul Cahillane won the Leinster club player of the year award for 2009 sponsored by the club championship sponsors, AIB. Paul was top scorer for Portlaoise in the county and provincial championships both of which were won by the club in 2009.

All-Ireland club semi-final

The year got off to the worst possible start for Portlaoise when the footballers, as Leinster champions, were unceremoniously mown down by Clare and Munster champions, Kilmurry- Ibrickane at Limerick in February. The Leinster Express reported: “It was a day when everything that could go wrong did and it was over almost as soon as it started. When Brian Mulligan was red-carded after less than a minute it left Portlaoise to play the remainder of the game with a man down against a team playing out of their skins.

“Kilmurry-Ibrickane head for Croke Park on March 17. The town of Portlaoise will have their St. Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, March 21, because the local committee decided there’d be no point in having a parade when everyone was in Croke Park. The Portlaoise footballers had nothing to do with that presumptious decision but the Clare side used it as motivation …”

Portlaoise lost Brian McCormack through a second yellow card nine minutes into the second half, they hit the post twice from close-in frees and had a goal disallowed deemed by the ref as a square ball. The “Town” were rated 1 to 4 favourites by the bookies but they could not get into their stride and in the end were well and truly beaten.

The game was more of a farce that an important championship game. The sending off of Mulligan set the scene for the farce when referee Michael Duffy from Sligo showed who was in charge by flashing his red card after only 30 seconds. It was a high challenge but hardly a sending off offence. This setback should not have had the effect it had on Portlaoise. They have thrived in adversity of so many previous occasions. But the crucial event came as such a shocker to the team that they never settled and were playing catch-up from the start. The Clare champions took a five point lead into the dressing-room at halftime. Portlaoise set out to put matters right on the restart but the tide continued to roar against them and their play and shooting was hesitant. When Kevin Fitzpatrick launched a long ball towards the square the Kilmurry keeper, Dermot O’Brien, misjudged it. He came off his line only for the ball to go over his head and into the net. Salvation at last! No, not likely. Not according to the ref again. He adjudged that Cahillane was in the square and disallowed the score. It was unbelievable stuff and although the Town men never threw the towel in, lady luck continued to shun their best efforts. The record shows that Kilmurry won by 1-14 to 0-8. But it will not tell the story behind the scoreline. To make matters even worse the national headlines damned the half-time and full time scenes in which Duffy was seen to have Garda protection on the way to his dressing-room. The escort was hardly needed as it was all overblown and a puff of smoke and, in truth, it was as bad a day for the Sligo referee as it was for the “Town” team and fans. Portlaoise manager, John Mulligan, was not wide of the mark when labelling Duffy’s performance as a “joke”. Yes it was a “joke” performance but it was not funny. Full credit, however, must go to the Clare team for playing out their skins and taking full advantage of the chaotic twists of a chaotic day.

Selectors were Brian Delaney, Martin Parkinson, Alan Daly and Pat Ryan (trainer).

First Rathleague Pitches Open

In July 2010 the first goalposts were erected at Rathleague by Mick Mulhall, Ollie Byrne and Sonny Keogh. The first pitch opened for training shortly afterwards and by October five pitches were operational. Temporary dressing rooms were installed and the new development began to take shape. An Taoiseach Brian Cowen visited the grounds during the year.

Four in a Row for Senior Footballers

Portlaoise senior footballers added another historic achievement to the club's roll of honour in 2010 by completing four Laois Senior Football Championship titles in succession.

The county final against Arles-Kilcruise was a tight and hard-fought contest, with never more than a single point between the sides until substitute Barry Fitzgerald edged Portlaoise two clear in the 48th minute.

Portlaoise still held only a two-point lead as the game entered injury time, before Zach Tuohy delivered asuperb crossfield ball which was collected and finished to the net by Paul Cahillane.

Ross Munnelly replied with a late free for Arles-Kilcruise, but Portlaoise had done enough to secure a 1-8 to 0-8 victory and complete the four in a row.

The achievement matched Graiguecullen's famous run from the 1940s and Portlaoise's own four in arow from the 1980s, placing the 2010 team firmly among the great sides in Laois football history.

Portlaoise 1-12 to The Heath 1-10. Portlaoise 1-12 to Crettyard 1-7. Portlaoise 1-11 to Portarlington 1-2. Semi-final: Portlaoise 0-12 to Stradbally 1-1.

Leinster Championship

Kildare champions, Moorefield, provided stiff opposition as Portlaoise set out to retain their provincial crown. The Town were in sparkling form as they built up a five point lead by halftime. Moorefield kept rattling the cage but Portlaoise held on for an impressive victory by 2-11 to 0-14.

Kilmacud Crokes put an end to Portlaoise’s reign as Leinster champions when beating them by 2-7 to 2-4 in a gripping high tempo game at O’Moore Park. Portlaoise got the best possible start when Brian Glynn won a penalty which was converted by Paul Cahillane, and a little later Tommy Fitzgerald collected a Bruno McCormack free and cheekily despatched it to the net.

A lesser team may have wilted but not Kilmacud who hit back with a goal against the run of play. Portlaoise led by a goal at the interval but this was hardly sufficient having to face the freshening breeze. Kilmacud proved the stronger in the second half and Declan Kelleher, son of the county star, Robbie Kelleher, collected the rebound of a sizzling shot and catching Michael Nolan off balance in the Portlaoise goal delivered the winner.

Portlaoise manager, John Mulligan, stepped down from his position in November, after this campaign during which the club’s senior footballers had won a record equalling four titles in a row. John was replaced by the former Portlaoise star football duo of All-Ireland fame, Mick Lillis and Mark Kavanagh.

Ladies Senior

SFC: Park/Ratheniska 1-7 to Portlaoise 0-6.

Senior Hurling

The Harps celebrated a rare win over the Town at senior level in the quarter-final by 3-10 to 0-13 and put Portlaoise out of the championship for possibly the first time. Portlaoise had a number of injury worries including striking ace, Tommy Fitzgerald, who fielded at Number 14, but was obviously bravely carrying a leg injury, which left him less of a threat than usual. The Harps played with great passion and a goal by Pat Walsh had them ahead after twenty six minutes. Three quick points byDavid O’Mahoney, Alan Kingsley and Cahir Healy restored the Town ascendancy but a Brian Dunne first time pull ended in the Portlaoise net to leave his side ahead by 2-3 to 0-8 at half-time.

In a second half played at a blistering pace the Town seemed to be shading matters but with three minutes remaining midfielder, Sean Burke, raced through for a third Harps goal and then John Brophy split the posts to secure a famous win for his side. Portlaoise’s lack of goal scoring power cost them dearly.

Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 1-16 to Colt 0-7. Portlaoise 2-18 to Kilcotton 0-11.

Intermediate Football

Timahoe were in super form to re-establish their club in senior competition when countering all the best moves of a competent Portlaoise squad by 0-15 to 0-9 in an entertaining final. Led by inspirational captain, Padraig Clancy, the Round Tower men had to dig deep to see off Portlaoise’s second side. The Town had the edge in the opening half and two pointed frees from Fergal Fennell just before the break left them 0-7 to 0-5 ahead.

Timahoe slowly gained control on the restart but they missed many opportunities. Portlaoise hung in well but only managed two second half points and a three point flourish by the winners in the closing minutes finally settled the issue. John Delaney was outstanding at full-back and his tenacity and his fellow defenders helped keep Portlaoise’s prospects alive until the dying moments of an entertaining game.

Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 4-8 to The Heath 0-6. Portlaoise 1-8 to Killeshin 0-8. Portlaoise 0-10 to The Heath 0-5. Semi-final: Portlaoise 0-14 to Courtwood 0-10.

Junior Hurling

Portlaoise lost a very entertaining semi-final tie with Trumera by 2-10 to 1-9 at Shanahoe. Trumera led by three points at the break thanks to a Declan Kavanagh goal just before the short whistle. They were holding on despite a spirited Portlaoise resistance when midfielder, Patrick Kavanagh found the net and put the result beyond doubt. Conor Bohane made a spectacular save and substitute, Craig Scully, shot a consolation goal but Trumera held on to qualify for the final. Match winner in the game against Borris-in-Ossory, Broughan Reilly was always a threat at full forward but his best efforts were frustrated by a sound Trumera defence.

Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 2-19 to Borris-in-Ossory 1-7. Portlaoise 2-7 to Kilcotton 0-9.

Junior “B” Football

Portlaoise had this title in the bag as early as the seventh minute in the final. It was all one way traffic and the Town were twelve points to the good before the Clonaslee side got on the scoreboard. Barry McEvoy (2-2) and Philip Lawless (1-4) were the Town’s top scorers in this 5-14 to 1-3 rout.

Park Ratheniska 3-8 to Portlaoise 1-9. Portlaoise 3-18 to Mountrath 3-4. Ballinakill 4-12 to Portlaoise 1-4. Portlaoise 0-14 to Timahoe 1-6. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-11 to The Harps 0-3.

ACFL Div 4

2010 saw Portlaoise claim its first ever ACFL Division 4 title as the club's junior footballers enjoyed a memorable league campaign.

The title was secured in late July when Portlaoise defeated The Harps by 1-11 to 0-6 in the final played in Shanahoe.

Producing a disciplined and controlled display, Portlaoise proved too strong for their opponents and deservedly lifted the trophy to mark a significant milestone for the club's junior football ranks.

Under 21 Football

Ballylinan/Glenmore took the honours in this semi-final clash at Annanough that “had all the trademarks of an exciting match, a close scoreline, two good free takers, a sending off and a nerve wrecking finish”, as reported in the Leinster Express.

Portlaoise led by 0-4 to 0-3 at the break. It was touch and go in the second period and the sides were level for the sixth time as Ballylinan lost a player through two yellow cards as time ticked away. But Ciaran Farrell kept his cool and slotted over a great and deciding point two minutes into injury time to set up a repeat of the 2009 final with Graiguecullen. Final result:Ballylinan/Glenmore 0-8 to Portlaoise 0-7.

Under 21 Hurling

Portlaoise lost out to Kilcotton/Borris-in-Ossory by 3-7 to 1-12 in the semi-final. The Leinster Express report stated: “Portlaoise will wonder how they contrived to lose this championship semi-final.” Neil Foyle shot the opening point for the winners but, in dreadful conditions, Portlaoise scored ten points on the trot, six from David O’Mahoney and these with the great work particularly of Darragh Cushen and Brian Smith, left their team well in control.

Foyle hit the Town lads with a 1-1 on the restart and as the scores came closer, a strange decision by the referee changed the course of the game. David O’Mahoney sent over from a free but the referee called him to retake it because a defender caused an infringement. He missed the retake and Borris stormed back with a succession of points to take the lead. Substitute, Brian Glynn, however, got the Town back ahead with a great goal. It appeared to be all over but then Foyle struck again with another major to put his side ahead by a whisker. Portlaoise forced another free but O’Mahoney surprisingly played a short pass to Glynn who was forced off his stride and sent wide. The free he deserved never materialised and the chance was gone.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 0-16 to Clough/Ballacolla 1-7.

Minor Football

Graiguecullen swamped Portlaoise with a deluge of goals in an open and well-contested final winning by 5-9 to 1-9. Not since St. Josephs beat them by 12 points in 1968 had Portlaoise suffered such a heavy defeat in a minor football final. Although Portlaoise only trailed by four points on the break and were still alive at the end of the third quarter they were hit by goals every time they threatened to take command against a fiery and efficient Graigue squad. Corner forward, Daryl Hayden shot four goals, two in either half, and added three points to torment the Town lads and race to an impressive victory. On the losing side, leader of the attack, Martin Staunton, had a fine game and finished with a 1-5 personal tally.

Earlier result: Quarter-final: Portlaoise 3-9 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 0-9.

Minor Hurling

MHC: Camross/Kyle 2-11 to Portlaoise 1-13.

Under 16 Football

Portlaoise won the Under 16 football final by 2-15 to 2-7 against St. Josephs/Barrowhouse.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise lost the final of the U14 football shield by 4-10 to 1-7 in Mountmellick.

Under 14 Hurling

Portlaoise won the Feile (Under 14 Hurling) by beating The Harps 3-4 to 2-3 in the final.

Ladies Under 14

Under 14 “B” league final: Park/Ratheniska 4-6 to Portlaoise 1-4.

Under 12 Football and Hurling Double

Portlaoise's Under 12 group completed a county football and hurling double in 2010.

The hurlers claimed county honours with an impressive 2-7 to 0-5 victory over Abbeyleix/Ballypickas in the Under 12 Hurling Final.

Success followed on the football field where Portlaoise completed the double with a convincing 3-11 to 2-4 victory over Killeshin Gaels in the Under 12 'A' Football Final.

Eoin Dunne was the standout performer in the football final, producing a superb display and finishing with an impressive personal tally of 1-6.

2010 honours

• Men’s Football – Junior B Laois Junior B Footballer of the Year John Delaney
• Men’s Football – Junior Junior ‘B’ Football Championship Portlaoise 5-14 v 1-3 Clonaslee St Manman’s Captain: John Delaney
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 4 Portlaoise 1-11 v 0-6 The Harps
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-8 v 0- 8 Arles/Kilcruise Captain: Michael Nolan
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 3-11 v 2-4 Killeshin Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-15 v St Joseph’s/Barrowhouse 2-7
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 2-7 v 0-5 Abbeyleix/Ballypickas Captain: Dylan Feane
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise 3-4 v 2-3 The Harps

AGM

Cahir Healy was selected as Laois Footballer of the Year for his superb consistency with club and county. Sam Murphy Kerry got the minor football award. The Big Debate on GAA matters in January whipped up huge interest and a big turnout at the GAA Centre at Fr Browne Avenue. Marty Morrissey was MC and debaters included Pat McEnaney, Michael Duignan, Tom Cribbin, Paudie Butler, Eugene Magee and Liam O’Neill.

Two prominent Portlaoise GAA men passed away within the same week in 2011. Eamon Conroy of Ashton Manor was a stylish footballer in his playing days winning minor, Under 21 and senior medals with the Town. He was on the panel of the Portlaoise team that won the All-Ireland club title in 1983. He was later a talented golfer and was captain of the Heath Golf Club shortly before his untimely death.

Billy Kelly, affectionately known by one and all as the “King”, was a keen follower of Town teams for many years. He will be remembered as a man with a permanent smile and quick wit. He was a staunch member of the social and fundraising activities in the club and his passing was sorely felt. He was originally from Ballyroan with whom his late father won county football championships. Billy threw in his lot with the town when he came to work there many years ago.

Rathleague era begins

Club members laid the final pitch at Rathleague themselves with the assistance of machinery provided by sponsors Laois Hire.

During the year a skills wall was added. This ball wall was kindly erected with the support of Booths Concrete, Terry Swayne (Portlaoise Stone) and Fergus Lawlor (Park Engineering) and the club gym, known as "Cheddar's Hangar", was installed.

Volunteers continued to enhance the facilities with fencing, lighting, parking and maintenance works.

Five in a Row for Senior Footballers

Completing five in a row senior football titles created a new championship record for Laois and, although it has been improved upon by the current squad in the years to follow, it remains a truly remarkable achievement. The club has been blessed with some of the best club teams in the province and in the country in the past and even though we did the four in a row previously, the fifth title on the trot remained elusive. It was another ambition to be achieved. The management team was Mick Lillis, Mark Kavanagh, Jim McManus and J P Cahillane. They deserve due credit for this wonderful achievement. Also we should remember the previous management teams who made this five in a row possible Karl Lenihan and his selectors George Plunkett, Tom Prendergast and Paddy Fitzpatrick who started the ball rolling in 2007 and to John Mulligan and his three in a row team of Pat Ryan, Martin Parkinson, Brian Delaney and Alan Daly. Sonny Keogh did great work in the role as kitman with all of the teams.

The footballers opened their bid for an historic five in a row with an easy win over Ballylinan by 4-16 to 1-9. They beat Arles-Kilcruise 0-14 to 2-7 in a gripping game and then the same opposition by 1-9 to 0-9 in the quarter-final. They scored an easy win over Stradbally in the semi-final by 0-16 to 1-5. A fancied Graiguecullen team awaited them in the final but Portlaoise despite failing to convert a number of chances in the first half hit their stride after half time and played some great football to run out winners 1-12 to 1-6, the Graigue goal coming late in the game.

The Senior footballers added another league title to their huge haul of titles in 2011 and went on to extend their record in the coming years. Result: Portlaoise 0-13 to Graiguecullen 0-10.

Leinster Championship

In the Leinster club championship Portlaoise had good wins over St Patricks (Louth) 2-12 to 1-14 and Rathnew 1-14 to 0-12 before losing out rather unluckily to St. Brigids of Dublin after extra time in the semi-final in Parnell Park on a scoreline of 2-16 to 1-15. The Nationalist report (Denis Croke) read: “Portlaoise left Donnycarney … knowing they had left this one behind them. In this game, as in the two games earlier in the Leinster campaign, they held the upper hand but failed to push on. This team will need to develop a more ruthless streak if they are to make significant progress in Leinster in the future.”

Portlaoise led by 1-6 to 1-2 with eight minutes remaining in the first half but by half-time the Dublin champions were back in contention. Brian Glynn took a pass from Colm Parkinson and blasted home for the Portlaoise goal. But Paddy Andrews responded with a major after a Portlaoise defender appeared to be fouled. John Loughlin shot two points for the Saints to level matters at 1-7 all in the third quarter. It was touch and go throughout the final quarter with Brigids regaining a two point lead but substitute, Craig Rogers, and Bruno levelled matters again and after a Barry Cahill point, it was Barry Fitzgerald who saved the day, as he has so often in the past, with an equaliser from a 40 metres free just at the final whistle to send the game into extra time. Portlaoise regained the lead in the first part of extra time with points from Ian Fitzgerald and Brian McCormack. But as time ran out Brigids had their noses in front again and just when the Town seemed set to hit back again they lost possession and Philly Ryan finished to the net to settle matters.

County Final Ban Controversy

Off the field Portlaoise were not well pleased either when the joint-manager of the football team, Mick Lillis, was hit with a ban following an incident with the Arles-Kilcruise manager, Mick Byrne, at the county final. Chairman, Vinnie Dowling, said the club was very aggrieved with the suspension and as a result said the club was boycotting the County Convention. Both men had received the same sentence of six months but Byrne’s term was reduced to three months by the Leinster Council. The County Board, however, refused to make a similar reduction for the Portlaoise man. The County Chairman referred to the matter at the Convention but said it was a matter for the DRA and ruled that there would be no discussion on the matter. Such injustice hardly serves the Laois GAA well!

ACFL Hat-Trick

The club completed a remarkable league hat-trick by capturing ACFL Division 1, Division 2 and Division 4 titles in 2011.

The senior footballers continued their dominance by winning the ACFL Division 1 crown with a 0-13 to 0-10 victory over Graiguecullen in the final.

Portlaoise's intermediate footballers added the Division 2 title following a hard-fought 1-10 to 0-9 win over Timahoe, demonstrating the strength and depth of football talent throughout the club.

Completing the hat-trick, the club's junior footballers secured back to back Division 4 titles with a convincing 2-11 to 0-10 victory over Ballylinan.

Ladies Senior

SFC: Portlaoise beat St. Conleths in a replay. It finished Portlaoise 1-13 to Conleths 4-4 in the drawn game. Semi-final: Sarsfield 5-13 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Senior Hurling

Wins over Colt and Rathdowney/Errill, then Camross 0-13 to 0-9 and Ballinakill 1-9 to 0-8 qualified our seniors for a showdown with Clough/Ballacolla, in the final. A goal by Keith Murphy just before half-time proved crucial to the win over Ballinakill.

Clough/Ballacolla were hot favourites for the final after their flattering runaway success against the Harps in the semi-final. But Portlaoise were well prepared by manager, Paul Bergin, and there was no shortage of self-belief that the ‘Town’ had sufficient fire-power to regain the title after seven years. The game backed up this self-belief and it was touch and go all through.

But the element of luck fell with the Clough/Ballacolla men and they shaded matters in the end of a hard fought sporting game by 1-10 to 0-11. Portlaoise had numerous good chances but failed to capitalise on their outfield superiority.

Intermediate Football

This team had a great league culminating with a win over Timahoe senior team in Stradbally. Wins in the championship over Courtwood 0-15 to 0-5, The Heath 1-13 to 1-7, Killeshin, by 2-8 to 0-10 and Park/Ratheniska by 2-15 to 1-8, qualified them for the semi-final where they lost to Ballyroan on a wet and windy night in O’Moore Park by 1-8 to 1-3.

Junior 'A' Football

The Junior ‘A’ team had a very good year winning their division of the league beating Ballylinan in Kellyville in the final. They were beaten in the semi-final of the championship by Graiguecullen who were fielding their second team.

Junior 'C' Football

The Junior ‘C’ team lost out to Shamrocks in the semi-final of the league and made it all the way to the championship final where they were unlucky to lose out to a very experienced O’Dempseys team by 0-14 to 0-13. Sharp-shooter, Scott Lawless sent over what looked like the winner in the dying seconds. But Eoin Finlay levelled seconds later and in the fourth minute of injury time Mark McCormack sent over the winner to dash Portlaoise hopes. Lawless, who shot 0-7, saw a great effort land on the cross-bar and was pushed out for a ‘45’ but referee, Colm Kelly (St. Josephs) deemed there was no time to take the ‘45’.

Earlier game: Portlaoise 3-13 to Ballyfin 0-2.

Junior 'A' Hurling

Portlaoise competed in three grades giving plenty of players lots of hurling. The ‘A’s lost out to Park/Rathineska in the championship semi-final by 1-12 to 1-7. They lost to Castletown/Slieve Bloom in the league semi-final.

Junior 'B' Hurling

They were very competitive with limited resources.

Junior 'C' Hurling

The junior ‘C’s under the same management as the A’s, Damien Lynch and John Mulligan jnr., just failed to a strong Harps team by 3-9 to 2-7 in the final.

Under 21 Hurling

Great work was done at Under 21 level without success. In the preliminary round the Town lads met a very well organised Ballypickas/Abbeyleix side and could not match up to the opposition after half-time at which stage Portlaoise trailed by 0-10 to 1-5.

Under 21 Football

The Under 21s were beaten in the first round by St. Josephs/Barrowhouse, the eventual winners of the championship, in a game played in a constant downpour at Rathleague by 2-9 to 2-6.

First Minor Football League Title and Double Success

The Portlaoise minor footballers completed a league and championship double and capturing the club's first ever Minor Football League title.

The league crown was secured on a wet and windy evening in Kellyville where Portlaoise defeated Stradbally by 2-12 to 2-8 in an entertaining final.

Building on that success, the team carried their form into the championship. Victories over Killeshin/Crettyard by 1-14 to 0-9 and O'Dempseys by 1-8 to 0-7 in the semi-final booked their place in the county final.

In the decider, Portlaoise produced one of their finest displays of the year to sweep aside a highly fancied St. Joseph's-Barrowhouse side by 2-12 to 0-6.

Dean Cullen was the star scorer with an impressive contribution of 1-6, while captain Sam Murphy-Kerry delivered a man-of-the-match performance as Portlaoise dominated throughout.

Minor Hurling

Rathdowney/Errill 2-15 to Portlaoise 2-15. (Draw). Replay: Rathdowney/Errill 2-16 to Portlaoise 1-14.

In the drawn game first half goals by Liam McGovern and Gary Bergin left Portlaoise clear by six points but, after the break Rathdowney responded with 1-4 without reply to sneak a lead. Ciaran McEvoy’s late point earned a replay for the Town.

Ladies Minor

Sarsfields 7-15 to Portlaoise 2-6.

Under 14 Championship Treble

The outstanding success enjoyed by Portlaoise's Under 14 teams in 2011 continued as the club completed a remarkable championship treble across hurling, football and ladies football.

The hurlers claimed county honours with an emphatic 4-9 to 0-4 victory over Naomh Éamann (Castletown) in the championship final.

Portlaoise beat the same opposition, Naomh Eamonn 2-8 to 0-4 in the Feile final and Ballyfin/Mountmellick 3-8 to 1-5 in the league final.

The footballers followed by completing another championship and Féile double, defeating St. Joseph's/Barrowhouse by 3-10 to 3-6 in a thrilling county final.

The team also won the Feile final beating Ballyfin/Mountmellick by 3-7 to 4-3 to complete the Feile double.

Completing a unique treble, the Portlaoise Ladies Under 14 team captured the county championship title with a commanding 5-4 to 0-0 victory over St. Joseph's.

Portlaoise also won the U14 championship final

Féile Treble

In 2011 the club completed a remarkable Féile treble, capturing county Féile titles in football, hurling and ladies football.

The hurlers produced an outstanding display in their final, defeating Naomh Éamann by 2-8 to 0-4 to claim Féile na nGael honours.

The footballers followed suit in a thrilling final, edging Ballyfin/Mountmellick by 3-7 to 4-3 to secure Féile Peil na nÓg success.

Completing an extraordinary achievement for the club, the Under 14 ladies footballers also captured Féile Peil na nÓg honours with a 5-1 to 3-3 victory over Park/Ratheniska.

The victorious ladies panel was Emma Hooban, Niamh Conroy, Sarah Phelan, Orla Phelan, Orla Rigney, Orla Carroll, Orla Lyons, Rebecca Kirwan, Amanda Bland, Tamara Lawless, Lisa Weldon, Rebecca Dunne, Aideen O'Neill, Chloe McCabe and Gillian Hannigan, Cliona Brown, Éireann Brennan, Stephanie Traynor, Aoife O'Sullivan, Rebecca Maher, Jessica Lynch, Deirdre Phelan, Jessica O'Neill and Michaela Dunne.

Under 12 Hurling

In the Under 12 Hurling (Go Games) the final result was: Camross 3-2 to Portlaoise 2-4.

Under 12 Football

'B' final: Rosenallis 2-4 to Portlaoise ‘B’ 1-4.

CBS win

Denis Cahill put on a super show to ensure Portlaoise CBS won this first years final against St. Fergals, Rathdowney, on a 3-8 to 2-3 scoreline.

The Battle of Maryborough

One of the most memorable social and fundraising events in the club's history took place in March 2011 when Portlaoise GAA Club joined forces with Portlaoise Rugby Club to stage the hugely successful Battle of Maryborough.

Held in the Heritage Hotel, the event attracted apacked house and generated tremendous excitement throughout the town as personalities from both clubs stepped into the boxing ring for a night of competitive but good-humoured entertainment.

The fundraiser captured the imagination of the wider community, drawing large support from both sporting organisations and creating a unique occasion that brought together players, members, supporters and volunteers.

Featuring a series of full-blooded boxing contests, the evening delivered plenty of drama, laughter and sporting rivalry while raising valuable funds for both clubs.

The Battle of Maryborough became one of the most talked-about events of the year and remains fondly remembered as a wonderful example of community spirit, cooperation and fundraising success.

2011 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor Footballer of the Year Sean Murphy-Kerry
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Cahir Healy
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-12 v 0-6 St.Joseph’s Barrowhouse Captain: Sam Kerry-Murphy
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise v Unkonwn
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 0-13 v 0-10 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 2 Portlaoise 1-10 v 0-9 Timahoe
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 4 Portlaoise 2-11 v 0-10 Ballylinan
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-12 v 1-6 Graiguecullen Captain: Craig Rogers
• Men’s Football – Under 11 Laois U-11 ‘A’ Football Championship
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 3-10 v 3-6 St. Joseph’s- Barrowhouse Captain: Niall Gavin
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 3-7 v 4-3 Ballyfin/Mountmellick
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘C’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-9 v 0-4 Naomh Éamann
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 4-9 v 0-4 Naomh Eamann
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 Hurling Division 1 League Portlaoise 3-8 v 1-5 Ballyfin/Mountmellick
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise 2-8 v 0-4 Naomh Éamann
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 5-4 v 0-0 St Joseph’s
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 5-1 v 3-3 Park Ratheniska

AGM

Six in a Row and ACFL Division 1 Champions

Final: Portlaoise 1-13 to Arles/Kilcruise 0-9.

This was a six-in-arow and a win in style. From the time Brian McCormack struck for the game’s only goal the title was always going back to the Town. Team captain, Brian Mulligan, was man of the match and fully deserving too, Cahir Healy was at his masterful best, Paul Cotter gave probably his best display at this level and Brian Smith was in top form up front. But it was fully another fine team effort with Bruno, Craig Rogers, Conor Boyle and Barry Fitzgerald also enhancing their reputations. The Town led comfortably by five points at the break and were never seriously threatened in the second period. Corner back, Tommy Fitzgerald, went forward in the closing stages to split the posts for a fitting score and a fitting finish.

Brian McCormack's goal proved the decisive score and from that moment the title always appeared destined to return to the Town. Team captain Brian Mulligan delivered a man-of-the-match performance while Cahir Healy, Paul Cotter, Brian Smith, Craig Rogers, Conor Boyle and Barry Fitzgerald all made major contributions.

Portlaoise led comfortably by five points at the break and maintained control throughout the second half. Fittingly, corner-back Tommy Fitzgerald ventured forward late in the game to score the final point of the contest and complete a memorable victory.

Portlaoise 0-20 to Crettyard 1-3. Portarlington 1-10 to Portlaoise 1-10. (Draw). This was the first time Portlaoise had not won a championship game for six years. Replay: Portlaoise 2-12 to Portarlington 0-4. Quarter-final: Portlaoise 3-8 to Stradbally 1-6. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-17 to St. Josephs 0-4.

Leinster Championship

Portlaoise had an easy win in the Leinster club championship opener by beating Wicklow champions, St. Partricks by 3-10 to 0-4 in Aughrim. The Town led by 2-6 to 0-0 at half-time. The semi-final was a much tighter affair and Portlaoise had to pull out all their know-how to dispose of Longford champions, Emmet Og by 1-11 to 2-5 at O’Moore Park. Portlaoise led by the minimum at 0-6 to 1-2 at half-time and it was touch and go throughout the second half. It was the coolness personified, Brian Smith who scored the vital score when slotting home in the third quarter and Portlaoise held out for a hard fought win. The final was in Mullingar and proved a disappointing day for the Town against Dublin champions, Ballymun Kickhams.

Although Portlaoise got off to a bright start with a brilliant point by Brian McCormack, they failed to convert many good chances into scores in that opening half. And while Ballymun were easing in front, point by point, it was 27 minutes before corner back, Cahir Healy, burst forward to show the forwards how it is done, with a great point. Despite their overall superiority Portlaoise were 0-6 to 0- 2 behind at the break, mainly due to Dean Rock’s accuracy from frees. The Town continued to pummel the Dubs rearguard but still missed vital chances. Ballymun clawed their way back and led by three points with a few minutes remaining. They then had their only wide of the hour before Rock made it four. The final score fell to Barry Fitzgerald, perhaps the finest score of the day, but time ran out on a disappointing Portlaoise effort.

Result: Ballymun Kickhams 0-11 to Portlaoise 0-8.

ACFL Div. 1

Portlaoise retained their Division One title but only after surviving a late scare by Emo. Portlaoise led by 0-6 to 0-3 at the break but this was cut to a single point with two minutes of normal time remaining. Fergal Fennell and Craig Rogers sent over insurance points but Paul Lawlor almost snatched a goal in the dying seconds.

Final: Portlaoise 0-14 to Emo 1-8.

Portlaoise 2-17 to O’Dempseys 1-7. Portlaoise 1-6 to St. Josephs 0-7. Portlaoise 0-9 toThe Heath 0-6. Poprtlaoise 2-10 to Stradbally 1-4. Portlaoise 0-9 to Timahoe 0-1. Portlaoise 2- 14 to Graiguecullen 0-13. Portlaoise 2-12 to Crettyard 0-9. Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-8 to Arles/Killeen 1-7.

Ladies Senior

Portlaoise lost in the senior championship to Timahoe by 3-12 to 1-6. The winners had lots of experience and this told in the end.

Senior Hurling

After a good win over Castletown in the opener, Portlaoise battled impressively after a bad start against Rathdowney/Errill in the quarter-final. They trailed by just one point at the break after Cian Taylor found the net. Then on the resumption Derek Delaney equalised and Noel Costello added two more to put the Town ahead for the first time. Rathdowney midfielder, Shane Dollard, was then sent packing and when Costello sent over again it looked like a march to victory. But just when the dust began to settle a probing ball from Rathdowney half back, Joe Fitzpatrick, found the Portlaoise net and this completely unsettled the Town men. Rathdowney added three quick points and then another goal to put the game beyond the reach of manager, Paul Bergin’s, men.

Portlaoise 1-16 to Castletown/Slieve Bloom 1-13. Rathdowney /Errill 3-14 to Portlaoise 1-14.

ACHL Div 1

Results: Clough/Ballacolla 3-12 to Portlaoise 2-12. Borris/Kilcotton 0-16 to Portlaoise 2-9. Camross 4-13 to Portlaoise 1-11. Portlaoise 2-13 to Kilcotton 1-15. Portlaoise 1-16 to Abbeyleix 1-13.

Intermediate Football

Results: Emo 1-10 to Portlaoise 0-5. Portlaoise 0-8 to Ballyroan Abbey 1-5 (Draw). Portlaoise 1-12 to Courtwood 1-8.

Unfortunately the four point win over Courtwood was not sufficient to overturn a twelve deficit on scoring average they needed to qualify for the semi-final. At half time it looked as if they were well on their way to the knock-out stages when leading by 1-7 to 0-1 and in rampant control. Then they took their foot off the pedal and Courtwood started to reduce the lead.

Portlaoise held out to win the game but lost out on scoring difference.

Junior Football

Portlaoise scored a great win against St. Josephs by 4-6 to 0-6 in the semi-final. Graiguecullen beat Portlaoise 1-11 to 0-12 in the final. But it was a closer fought game than it appeared in the early stages when Graigue seemed overpowering and swept into a five point lead. However, Portlaoise hit back before halftime and there was only three points separating the sides at the break. Two pointed frees from full-forward, Colm Byrne, and another from the lively Scott Lawless had the sides level after seven minutes of the restart. The Town battled gamely but a close n free by Colm Byrne was turned over in the closing stages to deny his side victory.

First ACHL Division 3 Title

In 2012 when Portlaoise junior jurlers captured their first ever ACHL Division 3 title.

Having reached the final following a hard-fought 1-15 to 1-13 semi-final victory over Clough-Ballacolla, Portlaoise produced another impressive display when it mattered most.

In the final, the Town defeated Castletown/Slieve Bloom by 1-12 to 0-10 to secure acoveted league crown and add another notable chapter to the club's growing hurling story.

Led superbly by captain Darren Murphy and inspired by the accurate free-taking and scoring ability of Derek Delaney, Portlaoise controlled the contest and were deserving winners at the final whistle.

Under 21 Football

Sarsfield Gaels, comprising of players from The Rock, Mountmellick, Rosenallis, Kilcavan and Ballyfin, scored a surprising win over the ‘Town’ in a hard fought final by 0-9 to 1-4 played on 14th November. Portlaoise looked good when Donnacha O’Reilly found the net in the third minute and this helped them into a 1-2 to 0-3 lead at the break. After Graham Brody saved a penalty from Ben Forde, Sarsfield were awarded a second one which was taken by wing back, Eddie Melia, but the Portlaoise keeper saved this spectacularly as well. But Sarsfields did not let these set-backs deny them and they finished strongly to take the title in a gripping finish.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-12 to Graiguecullen 1-7. Semi-final: Portlaoise 4-5 to St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 1-7.

Under 21 Hurling

The hot favourites for the title Borris/Kilcotton disposed of Portlaoise in the opening round but only after a competitive clash at Knockaroo. The winners had the best of the opening half and led by 1-9 to 0-3 at the break. Portlaoise matched their opponents everywhere except on the scoreboard in the second half but wasteful shooting kept them adrift and despite a great goal by Darragh Cushen from a close free, they were poorly rewarded for their best efforts.

Final score: Borris/Kilcotton 2- 11 to Portlaoise 1-6.

Minor Football League and Championship Double

Portlaoise won the final by the narrowest of margins against the Mountmellick based side, Sarsfield Gaels. It was a game that seemed to have slipped away when the ‘Town’ struck back in the final minutes with a great goal by substitute, Aaron Rafter, to snatch a memorable victory. With his side two points down and looking like the game had slipped away from them, Donnacha O’Reilly slipped the ball neatly to Rafter and his speed took him clear of defenders before finishing spectacularly into the bottom corner for a memorable victory. Two first half goals, one from a penalty helped Mountmellick go in level at 2-1 to 0-7 at the break. Final score: Portlaoise 1-9 to Sarsfield Gaels 2-5.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 2-12 to St. Josephs/Barrowhouse 1-11. Semi-final: Potlaoise 1-14 to Ballyroan Abbey 0-14.

The Town had earlier captured the MF league title again in a thriller against Ballyroan Gaels by 0-12 to 2-5. Eoin Phelan and Mark Dunne were the only change of personnel on the starting fifteen from the championship winning side while Paddy Conroy, James Holohan and Jack Dooley were brought on during the game.

Minor Hurling

In the run-up to the quarter-final, Portlaoise had suffered a ten point defeat to Borris/Kilcotton at Camross. Castletown came into the game as “B” league champions. But it was the Town lads who showed the style. Three first half goals from Gary Bergin sent his side into the break leading by 3-3 to 0-6 and they weathered the second half storm to win the day.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 3-11 to Castletown/Slieve Bloom 2-10.

This qualified them to meet hotshots, Borris/Kilcotton, who were playing for a place in the final for the fourth year on the trot. It was a hard fought game and Portlaoise were well in contention until near the end. But one felt that they needed a goal to swing matters in their direction and despite their best efforts they were frustrated up front.

Under 17 Football

St. Josephs/Barrowhouse beat Portlaoise by 1-1 to 1-8 in the Under 17 football final.

Under 16 Football

In the U16 football, Stradbally Parish Gaels beat the Town in the semi-final replay by 2-9 to 2-7. St. Josephs/Barrowhouse beat Portlaoise by 1-1 to 1-8 in the

Under 16 Ladies

Sarsfield readily disposed of the Under 16s by 5-16 to 3-5.

Under 16 Hurling

Rathdowney/Errill defeated Portlaoise 1-17 to 0-6 in the Under 16 hurling final.

National Féile Peil na nÓg Finalists

The Portlaoise Under 14 footballers completed a county championship and Féile double before embarking on amemorable run to the National Féile Peil na nÓg Division 1 Final.

The county championship was secured in emphatic fashion when Portlaoise defeated St. Joseph's-Barrowhouse by 4-11 to 0-3 in the Under 14 Football Final.

Portlaoise followed up that success by claiming county Féile honours when they defeated Portarlington and earning the right to represent Laois at the National Féile Peil na nÓg Finals.

The Town side produced a series of impressive displays to reach the Division 1 Final, one of the highest achievements in juvenile football.

In the final at O'Moore Park, Portlaoise faced a powerful St. Brigid's side from Dublin. Despite a brave and determined effort, the Dublin champions proved too strong and won by 1-6 to 0-0.

While the national title ultimately eluded them, Portlaoise had achieved something special by reaching the Division 1 Final and competing with the best juvenile football teams in the country.

Fifth National Féile na nGael Title

In 2012 the under 14 hulers captured the National Féile na nGael Division 2 title, the club's fifth national Féile hurling crown and the third Laois Féile na nGael in a row.

The year began with county success as Portlaoise defeated Borris-Kilcotton by 3-14 to 1-5 in the Under 14 Hurling Championship Final. The same group also secured county Féile honours, completing acounty championship and Féile double.

Their greatest achievement came at national level. Having reached the National Féile na nGael Finals, Portlaoise produced a series of outstanding performances to reach the Division 2 decider.

The campaign began with a 3-5 to 0-4 victory over St. Sylvester's of Dublin, followed by a dominant 2-10 to 0-1 win over Castleknock. Portlaoise then defeated Clonkill by 4-10 to 0-2 before booking their place in the final with a comprehensive 3-6 to 0-0 victory over Lucan Sarsfields.

In the final, Portlaoise faced the strong Belfast club St. John's in Croke Park. After falling behind, the Town showed tremendous determination and resilience to battle back and secure a thrilling 3-7 to 2-9 victory.

Captained by Aaron Bergin, the team delivered one of the finest juvenile achievements in club history and added another national title to the club's proud Féile tradition.

The success completed a remarkable treble of county championship, county Féile na nGael and National Féile honours.

Under 14 Camogie

Under 14 “B” final: Naomh Eamon 2-2 to Portlaoise 0-2.

Under 14 Ladies

Portlaoise beat Timahoe 3-9 to 2-2 to win the U14 league title in the final played at Rathleague.

CBS

In the South Leinster JF semi-final Gorey CBS beat Portlaoise by 4-3 to2-6. Portlaoise led by 2-4 to 1-2 at the break with goals by John Kavanagh and Jack Reddin. They withstood tremendous pressure in the second half with full-back Darragh Drennan in super form. The sides were level with seven minutes remaining when Michael Duke snatched the vital goal for Gorey.

Gorey CS also put the senior hurling team out of the South Leinster championship at the semi-final stage by 2-11 to 2-6. Gorey led by 2-4 to 1-3 at the break and in terrible underfoot conditions a Carlow held out.

2012 honours

• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor Footballer of the Year Conor Dunne
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Conor Boyle
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 1-9 v 2-5 Sarsfields Gaels Captain: Dean Lynch
• Men’s Football – Minor Laois Minor ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise 2-5 v 0-12 Ballyroan Abbey
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 0-14 v 1-8 Emo
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 1-13 v 0-9 Arles/Kilcruise Captain: Brian Mulligan
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 Football Competition Portlaoise 3-11 v 0-3 O'Dempseys
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Championship Winners Portlaoise 4-11 v 0-3 St Joseph’s Barrowhouse
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Division 1 League Portlaoise 4-14 v 1-3 St Paul's The Rock
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise v Portarlington
• Hurling – Senior Laois ACHL Div 3 Portlaoise 1-12 v 0-10 Castletown Slieve Bloom Captain: Darren Murphy
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 3-14 v 1-5 Borris Kilcotton
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 All-Ireland Féile na nGael Division 2 Portlaoise 3-7 v 2-8 St. John's
• Hurling – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile na nGael Division 1 Portlaoise v Unknown
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ League Portlaoise 3-9 v 2-2 Timahoe

AGM

Seven in a Row for Senior Footballers

Portlaoise’s strength in depth was a major factor in Portlaoise sweeping to their seventh title on the trot. In the opening half, Arles/Killeen were in the ascendancy with Paul Kingston proving a constant threat at full-forward and Donie Brennan and Donie Kingston controlling the middle third of the pitch.

They led by 0-3 to 0-2 at the end of the third quarter. But Killeen keeper, Michael Leigh, was forced to pull Brian Smith down in the parallelogram as he lined up a shot at goal. Paul Cahillane slotted the spot kick neatly inside the upright. But after a pointed free from Paul Kingston, the Killeen fullforward rounded a Portlaoise defender and neatly netted to give his side a 1-4 to 1-2 lead. They almost bagged another goal but were denied by an outstretched leg of Portlaoise keeper, Michael Nolan. They went into the break with a nice 1-6 to 1-3 lead.

This was extended to four points on the resumption. But now Portlaoise had a new full back in sub Paul Cotter, another sub Kevin Fitzpatrick brought size and experience into attack and Conor Boyle curbed Donie Kingston’s impact on the game. Craig Rogers steadied the Portlaoise ship with a brace of points and then Kevin Fitzpatrick latched onto a half blocked shot by Bruno McCormack and found the Arles/Killeen net. Portlaoise were given another fillip when Australian based Zach Tuohy was introduced. They eased into a four point lead and while the losers got one back it was too little too late and Portlaoise duly extended their own record to seven in a row. Final score: Portlaoise 2-8 to Arles/Killeen 1-8.

Results of earlier rounds: Portlaoise were lucky to survive the very first defence of the title they had held for six years.

Neighbours, The Heath, cared little for reputations as they went within the width of the paintwork a few times of causing the upset of the championship. Yes a little good fortune, some wonderful saves by goalie, Michael Nolan and the accuracy of Bruno McCormack, saved the Town. The Heath were narrowly wide on a few occasions, Nolan made two spectacular saves in the final quarter and Bruno notched seven of his side’s eight point tally in this 1-8 to 0-9 win.

The writing was on the wall it seemed and the next round left all concerned in no doubt but that the title was on the line. Graiguecullen dished out a stunning 2-10 to 3-6 defeat which certainly rocked the Town. Ballylinan bore the brunt of Portlaoise on a recovery mission and were hammered by 1-16 to 0-7. In the semi-final Portlaoise were even more convincing winning by 1-15 to 1-9 against Arles/Kilcruise. Paul Cahillane and Bruno McCormack were striking forces and much too hot for their opponents.

Leinster club championship

Played in dreadful wintry conditions at Pearse Park showed all their never-say-die qualities when salvaging a game that seemed well and truly slipping from their grasp. Three goals in a fifteen minute spell in the opening half left Longford Slashers with a commanding 3-3 to 0-6 lead at the break. Things got even worse when Longford stretched the lead to eight points on the restart. Then enter the captain. Brian McCormack who sent over two points and then crashed home a goal to leave only three points between the side.

Graham Brody was introduced for the injured goalie, Michael Nolan, and he was soon called upon to make a splendid save. He then sent over a point from a ‘45’. Paul Cahillane had the teams level in the 54th minute. Brian Glynn and Craig Rogers went close to supplying the winner, but the sides were level at full-time and the honour of shooting the winner fell to Adrian Kelly with a great point in extra time. Result: Portlaoise 1-15 to Longford Slashers 3-7.

In the semi-final Portlaoise had a very impressive win over a strong and competent Kildare champion side, Moorefield by 1-9 to 0-8. In a game played with great intensity, Moorefield had the upper hand in the opening half and led by 0-6 to 0-4 at the break. However, on the restart, the game turned Portlaoise’s way when Pul Cahillane intercepted and placed Brian McCormack for the game’s only goal. This was the vital score and Portlaoise just kept their noses in front against a formidable side who only managed two points in the second half and shot only one point from play during the hour.

In the final Portlaoise showed their high-quality worth by scoring 3-9 against the Dublin champions, St. Vincents. That would be sufficient to win nine out of ten finals – but unfortunately not this one. In a high calibre game the Town just failed but few could fault their performance. Absolutely out of the top drawer.

Portlaoise led by a point at the end of the opening quarter and after what appeared to be a certain penalty for a foul on Craig Rogers was waved aside, Paul Cahillane sent over from the free. Incredibly Vincents hit back with a vengeance and shot two goals and two points in the next five minute spell to leave them two goals clear with six minutes of the half remaining.

These were hammer blows and fans were rocked by their sudden impact on what had been a great opening period. But in the twinkle of an eye Portlaoise were back in business when Craig Rogers came off the end line with a ball and incredibly found an opening to finish to the net. Seconds later a great delivery from Brian McCormack was safely collected by Rogers who was unceremoniously bowled over. Cool cat Rogers picked himself up, gave himself a shake and sent the spot kick past a helpless goalie. This left the sides 2-5 each at the break.

After an exchange of points on the restart Brian Glynn linked up with McCormack for another Portlaoise goal and suddenly the Town fans were in seventh Heaven. Before the cheers had died down Vincents raced upfield giving Gavin Burke possession, and he brushed off attempted tackles before finding an unmarked Shane Carty for a goal. It was all happening in O’Connor Park, Tullamore. Portlaoise were not yet beat and edged ahead again but Vincents finished strongly and edged the verdict after a Leinster final classic. Vincents collected the cup, the second year in a row for Portlaoise to fall to Dublin representatives, but in truth there were no losers in such an exhibition of Gaelic Football at its best. Vincents did Portlaoise due justice by readily winning the All-Ireland title.

Senior Ladies

The seniors qualified for the league final by virtue of a 6-2 to 3-13 win over Crettyard. In the final Sarsfields proved too good and after leading by 1-5 to 0-2 at the break finished up easy winners by 2-11 to 0-6.

In the first round of the championship Portlaoise beat Park/Ratheniska 6-4 to 2-7. In the semi-final, however, they came out on the wrong side of a 1-16 to 1-6 score line against Sarsfields.

Fiona O’Connor, Nikki Kelly, Aisling O’Connor, Anna Fitzgibbon and sub, Orla Phelan were among the changes from the league final winning side.

Senior Hurling

With Cyril Duggan and Niall Rigney in charge of the team, hopes were high of a good campaign. The opening game gave them a satisfactory win over Ballinakill by 2-18 to 1-15. Camross were rampant in the second game winning by 4-15 to 0-12. On the form shown in this game the Town’s prospects of regaining the title last won in 2004 were extremely slim. But the game proved a wake-up call. Portlaoise were a different team against Castletown/Slieve Bloom and their 2-15 to 1-6 win qualified them for the semi-final.

The semi-final draw pitted the Town against Camross again and the question on everyone’s lips was whether or not the fifteen point beating dished out by the men from the Slieve Blooms in an earlier round was indeed true form or just a freak result. Happily for the Town it was a different game in every respect and they led their opponents a merry dance for much of the game. They were three points up after ten minutes and although missing many scores into the bargain they were leaving Camross looking ragged.

But then out of nothing Camross were level with a goal from young star Dwane Palmer and after that it was an uphill struggle. Camross led by 1-6 to 0-5 at the break but Portlaoise cut the lead to the minimum with points from Tommy and Barry Fitzgerald, Noel Costello and Darragh Duggan. Camross slipped ahead again when Barry set up his brother, Tommy, for a great goal. They had further chances but lack of finish cost them dearly in a gripping finale. Camross went into the final as underdogs against Borris/kilcotton but won it convincingly. Once again, another championship had slipped out of Portlaoise’s grasp.

ACHL Div One: Portlaoise 3-8 to Clough/Ballacolla 1-8. Portlaoise 1-5 to Rathdowney/Errill 0-6. Ballinakill 1-1 5 to Portlaoise 0-15. The Harps 1-1 2 to Portlaoise 0-15. (Draw) Portlaoise 3-2 3 to Camross 1-11. Castletown/Slieve Bloom 1-1 8 to Portlaoise 1-15.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise and Clonaslee/St.Manmans finished level at 1-8 to 2-5 in the opening game Clonaslee won the replay by 2-8 to 0-10. Annanough put themselves forward as championship contenders when beating the Town 2-13 to 0-11 in the next round.

In the relegation play-off, Portlaoise lost by 3-9 to 0-9 to Park/Ratheniska.

Junior A Hurling Champions

The club's junior hurlers captured the Junior A Hurling Championship title with a series of determined performances culminating in an impressive final display.

The campaign began with a hard-earned 5-10 to 3-10 victory over Borris-Kilcotton before the Town edged Mountmellick by 2-10 to 1-11 in a closely contested semi-final.

Having battled through the earlier rounds, Portlaoise saved their best performance for the county final against Clough-Ballacolla.

Led by captain Roch Scully, the Town produced a disciplined and skilful display to secure a convincing 1-14 to 0-8 victory and claim a rare Junior A Hurling Championship crown.

Strong throughout the field, Portlaoise combined defensive resilience with sharp attacking play, pulling away from their opponents to win in style and complete a deserved championship success.

Earlier results: Portlaoise 5-1 0 to Borris/Kilcotton 3-10. Semi-final: Portlaoise 2-1 0 to Mountmellick 1-11.

Junior Football

Kilcavan 2-7 to Portlaoise 0-9.

Under 21 Football

In the final played on 30th November in O’Moore Park, Portlaoise regained this title after a lapse of six years by beating Crettyard/Killeshin comprehensively 2-13 to 0-13. The Nationalist report told the story: “Sensational Martin Staunton rattled the Killehsin/Crettyard net on two occasions in the second half as Portlaoise came from five points down to win the title by a six point margin”. Killeshin led by 0-9 to 0-6 at the break and went five points up with twenty minutes remaining. Staunton’s goals turned the game on its head.

Graham Brody, the Portlaoise keeper, saved his side in an earlier round against Portarlington, when in injury time and his side trailing by a point he gathered the ball on his own 20 metre line and soloed upfield. He forced a free forty metres out from goal and kept his cool to send over the free and force a replay. Portlaoise 2-1 2 to Portarlington 3-9. There were no such repeat dramatics needed in the replay when the Town ran out 6-11 to 0-4 winners. It went to prove the point you don’t give Portlaoise footballers a second chance if you can avoid it.

In the quarter-final the Town had an easy win over Stradbally Parish Gaels by 2-12 to 1-4. In a hard-fought semi-final, a converted penalty from full-forward, Liam McGovern, proved crucial in the Town’s 1-8 to 0-7 win over St. Josephs/Barrowhouse.

Under 21 Hurling

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 6-9 to Clonaslee/St. Manmans 2-6.

Portlaoise put up a tremendous performance in the semi-final before bowing out to hot-shots, Borris/Kilcotton. With Philip O’Connell and Darragh Duggan ensuring a good supply from midfield, Ciaran McEvoy and Dean Lynch outstanding in the half back line and Cian Taylor, a busy and skilful leader of an attack in which Sean Culliton was the most productive, Portlaoise eased into an early lead. But instead of a four point advantage it should have been double that had they taken half their chances. A goal by P.J. Scully against the run off play, however, had Borris back on terms and they went into the break all square. The Town side continued to carry the game to their opponents but the wides persisted and Borris clawed themselves back into the game and in the final minutes pulled away with a points flourish.

Minor Hurling

Portlaoise can thank Gary Bergin for a super first round win over Clough/Ballacolla. He scored a hat-trick of goals and his younger brother Aaron scored eight points in a 3-18 to 2-17 win. The sides were level at 2-7 apiece at the break and it was Gary’s third goal seven minutes from time that swung matter’s in the Town’s direction. Chris Lynch had a superb game at centre half back and featured in many of his side’s scores.

The quarter-final against Castletown/Slieve Bloom was a cracking affair and this time it was Aaron Bergin who laid the foundations of victory with his unerring accuracy helping him to nine points in the 1-16 to 1-12 win.

The good run, however, came to a shuddering halt against the hot favourites Borris/Kilcotton in the semi-final. Although they trailed by 2-6 to 0-4 they were still in contention at the break but three further goals from the Borris led team left the Town lads with too big a mountain to climb in a 5-10 to 1-7 win.

Minor Football

Portlaoise, the titleholders, were dethroned by St.Josephs/Barrowhouse on a 4-11 to 2-12 scoreline in the semi-final in Stradbally. Michael Keogh’s long range effort dropped short of the Portlaoise goal and James Baldwin got there before the Portlaoise keeper, Eoin Keenan, and fisted the ball to the net to put his side ahead.

The winners raced into a nine point lead in the opening half but by half-time the Town side were back in contention at 3-5 to 1-6. The game was still in the balance into injury time when substitutes Noel Leech and Eanna Burke combined to set Keogh clear on goal for the clincher. Portlaoise cannot fault Dean Cullen who shot 0-6 and Gary Bergin, who scored both of their team’s goals, for the defeat.

First Laois and Leinster Under 16 Division 1 Hurling League Titles

Portlaoise under 16 hurlers captured their first Under 16 Division 1 League title in 2013.

The side had suffered disappointment in the Under 16 Hurling Championship Final, where Rathdowney/Errill proved too strong and won by 2-20 to 2-11.

However, Portlaoise responded in the best possible fashion by claiming league honours with a superb 4-8 to 1-9 victory over The Harps Gaels in the Division 1 League Final.

The headline captured the story perfectly: "Captain Aaron inspires the Town to another crown". Captain Aaron Bergin led by example with an outstanding individual display, scoring 2-6 of Portlaoise's total. The same side also went on to beat Raharney Hurling Club from Westmeath in the final of the Leinster U-16 Division 1 Hurling League 2-8 to 1-7.

Under 16 Football

The Under 16 footballers also lost in the championship final. St. Josephs/Barrowhouse beat them 1-9 to 0-7.

Under 14 Football

Portlaoise were too good for Naomh Eamon winning by 4-16 to 0-5 in the Under 14 “B” football league final.

Under 14 Ladies

In the Féile competition Portlaoise were unlucky to lose 3-5 to 3-4 to St. Pauls who scored a last minute goal.

Noted for Portlaoise were Sarah Power, Karen O’Reilly, Maeve Phelan, Emma Dunne, Jennifer O’Neill and Colleen Rickard.

Under 13 Football

In the U13 football final, Portlaoise won easily by 3-9 to 1-3 over St. Pauls/The Rock.

First Under 12 Girls Championship Since 2005

The Portlaoise Under 12 girls ended an eight-year wait for championship success when they captured county honours in 2013.

Facing Graiguecullen in the final, the young Town side produced a determined and disciplined display to claim a deserved 1-5 to 0-5 victory.

It was Portlaoise's first championship success at Under 12 level since 2005.

2013 honours

• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior Hurler of the Year Chris Lynch
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Brian McCormack
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-8 Arles/Killeen Captain: Brian McCormack
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 'B' Football League Portlaoise 4-13 v 0-5 Naomh Eamon
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Division 1 League
• Men’s Football – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-13 v 0-13 Killeshin/Crettyard Captain: Graham Brody
• Hurling – Junior Laois Junior ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-14 v 0-8 Clough/Ballacolla Captain: Roc Scully
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling League Portlaoise 4-8 v 0-8 The Harps Gaels
• Hurling – Under 16 Leinster U-16 Division 1 Hurling League Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-7 Raharney Hurling Club
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-6 v 2-2 Graiguecullen

AGM

Secretary, Pat Leogue, in his annual report for 2014, echoed the delight of members on winning the SF championship for the eighth successive year. It was an unique occasion and undoubtedly the highlight of the year, he said. There was more good news in Paul Cahillane being selected Laois Player of the Year. This was tempered by the disappointment of relegation from the SH championship but there was compensation for the hurling fraternity in the progress of the Under 21s to the county final and the treble of under-age successes at Under 11, 14 and 16 grades. The Under 14 footballers won the league title and Feile and were just beaten in the national finals in Galway after some great displays along the way. In Ladies football, the senior team won the Senior B championship and the Under 12 footballers won the championship for the second year in succession. In Camogie the club won its first ever championship with the Under 12 team highlighting all of the hard work that has been undertaken over the last five years by dedicated mentors. The secretary also noted that the club was honoured in 2014 when Ciamh Dollard was rewarded for her outstanding goalkeeping with a Ladies GAA All Star award and long standing and loyal club member, Michael Reynolds, was appointed as Runai of Comhairle Laighean.

Pat was loud in his praise of the voluntary workers. “The development of the facilities in Rathleague on an ongoing basis is testimony to the generosity and commitment of club members and benefactors as well as the hard work and dedication of the volunteers who give of their time each week to ensure that the pitches and facilities are presented so well. Special thanks are due to Ollie Byrne, Brendan Keogh, Liam Breen, Philip Harrington, Jim Gaynor and the scheme participants. The development of the ball wall recently is an excellent example of the workmanship and the commitment that our volunteers provide,” he wrote in his report.

Michael Nerney, Football Secretary, said that the 8-in-a-row was a great achievement. “The players left nothing to chance and they trained exceptionally hard all year, they also won the Senior Football League in July and we were very unlucky to meet an excellent St Vincents team in our first game in the Leinster Club Championship”, he reported. Mary Murphy, Hurling Secretary, wrote of the emergence of a young and talented squad at senior level, the heartbreak of being relegated and the injustice that led to it. With an almost completely new team they showed tremendous pride in the jersey against county champions, Camross, in the opening round. They were ahead at the end of the sixty minutes when the referee announced two minutes of injury time but incredibly allowed play to continue for Camross to draw level with the last puck. After another heart-warming display they were shaded by a few points in the relay. “Again some frustrating refereeing but Portlaoise have come to realise that comes with the territory for the Town hurlers for some reason or other over many years.” Death of Owen Deegan

It was a very sad occasion for Town fans with the news of the death of Owen Deegan in June. Owen gave a lifetime of commitment and service to the Town and was one of its greatest fans and admirers. In the early 1980s he was responsible for bringing the Tipperary hurling legend, Jimmy Doyle, his brother-in-law, on board to help the hurling effort in the club. It was not long until Jimmy, along with long-time team manager, Tom Lalor, brought Portlaoise to the top of the hurling tree in the county winning four titles in a row from 1981 to ’84. Owen was a warm and witty character who enlightened every company graced by his presence. Owen, always a man with a word of encouragement for Portlaoise players, will be sadly missed by his family and also by his legion of friends in the “Town he loved so well”. The unexpected death a mere twelve months later of Jimmy Doyle brought added grief to the Doyle and Deegan families and both are deeply mourned and fondly remembered by Portlaoise fans.

Financial Resolution Achieved

After years of negotiations, the club secured the basis of a settlement with Firestone Developments. Significant support from Michael and Maureen Killeen of Laois Hire helped complete the agreement. On 2 July 2014 the Fr. Browne Avenue grounds formally passed from club ownership, bringing closure to one of the most challenging periods in club history.

All-Star Award for Ciamh Dollard

Portlaoise and Laois goalkeeper Ciamh Dollard received national recognition in 2014 when she was named on the TG4 Ladies Football All-Star team.

Ciamh was rewarded for her outstanding displays throughout the season and was the first name announced when the 2014 team was revealed at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin.

The award was a proud moment for Portlaoise GAA and for Laois Ladies Football, with Ciamh becoming the first Laois player to win an All-Star since 2011.

It capped a remarkable year individually, having also been selected on the Division 1 Team of the League.

Her achievement highlighted her consistency, leadership and excellence between the posts and marked one of the standout individual honours achieved by a Portlaoise player.

Eight in a Row for Senior Footballers

The Town side, bidding for their eighth title on the trot, got off to a jittery start with a second round meeting with Emo. The sides were locked at three points each when “Bruno” McCormack scored a typical opportunist goal when getting possession from the rebound of a great save by the Emo keeper, Paul Kirwan. Portlaoise led by 1-5 to 0-4 when they were struck a big blow when Paul Cahillane, who had scored two early points, was shown a red card on twenty minutes. Emo were doing most of the football but it was that man “Bruno” who again struck when outjumping Kirwan to flick to the net. This gave the Town a five point advantage at the break but it was all Emo in the second half. They forced back to level matters on two occasions but scores by Craig Rogers, Murray Rogers and Conor Boyle proved crucial to clinch the tie 2-11 to 0-15.

In the quarter-final against Portarlington it looked all over at half-time but not the way the Town fans wished for. Portarlington ran them a merry dance in the opening half and fully deserved their six point, 1-9 to 1-3, halftime lead. Zach Tuohy, who had come on just before half-time, was full forward on the restart and had the ball in the net within twenty seconds. “Bruno” tacked on a point before Gareth Dillon placed Liam McGovern on the edge of the square for another quick-fire goal. Within minutes Zach had the ball in the net again and the Town lads went on to complete a decisive 4-11 to 1-12 win. They had turned around a six point deficit into a four point lead within seven minutes of the restart thus making a bold statement for all and sundry that once again the Town footballers meant business.

The semi-final proved another battle. O’Dempseys successfully tied down the Portlaoise main threats in the opening half and a goal by Michael Finlay in the 30th minute sent them in at the break leading by 1-3 to 0-3. There was no sense of urgency by the Town lads as they tried to contain an enthusiastic opposition A long ball by Adrian Kelly bounced off the turf and struck the crossbar. “Bruno” followed up and his fisted effort again hit the cross-bar. Craig Rogers was on hand to finish neatly. This was part of a 1-4 run by Portlaoise and despite O’Dempseys best efforts the Town went on to win 1-12 to 1-6, without stretching themselves unduly.

The “Leinster Express” reported all year that the “Town” were there for the taking but statistics prove otherwise and they certainly were not for the taking in the final. Their opponents, Arles/Killeen, looked formidable opponents. The local paper put Arles-Killeen at the head of the SFC “Power-Rating” after their semi-final demolition of Graiguecullen with Portlaoise judged as second-raters. The opposition were in the game in the early stages but when Paul Cahillane put the Town ahead for the first time after twenty minutes it was the turning point. Quick points by Conor Boyle, Stuart Nerney and “Bruno” McCormack had the Town clear by four points at the break. They were never seriously threatened in the second half and a goal by Ricky Maher in injury time was merely the icing on the cake. Portlaoise had too much firepower up front and the defence full of experience and a mix of youth with captain, Cahir Healy, leading by example proved rock solid throughout. Cahir admitted to being humbled when getting the “Man-of-the- Match” award before receiving the Delaney Cup, completing the eight-in-a-row for the Town.

Scorers:
Portlaoise: Paul Cahillane (1-4, 0-3 frees), Craig Rogers (0-4 frees), Ricky Maher (1-0), Brian McCormack (0- 2), Gareth Dillon, Conor Boyle, David Seale and Stuart Nerney (0-1 each).
Arles-Killeen: Paul Kingston (0-4 frees), Jason Enright (0-3 frees), Donie Kingston (0-2, 0-1 free).

Leinster Championship

In the Leinster club championship Portlaoise received a walk over in round one as the Wexford champions were not available due to late completion of their championship. St Vincents, Dublin, Leinster and All-Ireland champions were the visitors to O Moore Park in a game that promised fireworks after their brilliant meeting in the previous year’s championship. Vincents made a fast start and led 1-2 to 0-0 after 8 mins. Despite the poor start Portlaoise were only behind by one point at half time. Vincents repeated their quick start to the second half and ran out deserving winners 3-11 to 0-10. It was a disappointing result for Town fans.

ACFL Div. 1

Portlaoise also won the ACFL Div 1 title beating Portarlington 2-13 to 0-14 in the final.

First Senior Silverware for the Ladies

A significant milestone in the history of Portlaoise Ladies Football was reached in 2014 when the club captured its first senior silverware.

After an evenly contested initial encounter, Portlaoise and Shanahoe met again in a replayed final in Stradbally with silverware on the line.

On the day, Portlaoise produced an excellent team performance, combining strong defending with clinical finishing to record a deserved 2-10 to 1-6 victory to win the Senior 'B' Championship for the first time.

The success represented the club's first adult title since the Intermediate League and Championship double achieved in 2006 and marked another important step in the development of ladies football within Portlaoise.

Senior Hurling

Portlaoise went into their first round game of the championship with a forlorn hope having lost all their league games and now facing the reigning champions, Camross. But they had prepared well and dominated proceedings with their young and inexperienced side showing great skill and pace. A number of missed chances, however, kept their scoring down and they led by a single point at the break. In a frenetic second half the town lads kept the pressure on and a point from his own ‘65’ against the breeze put them ahead at the end of the hour. The referee announced two minutes injury time but to the dismay of Portlaoise fans and neutrals alike he allowed play to continue for six minutes until Camross equalised from a free. The prize for first round winners was a place in the quarter-finals and the removal of the threat of relegation, which was a huge prize for this valiant if inexperienced town side. It was bare-faced robbery! Final score: Camross 0-17 to Portlaoise 2-11.

If the Laois hurling world felt it was a flash in the pan from Portlaoise, this theory was exploded in the replay. In an end to end thriller Portlaoise were just shaded by two points, 3-10 to 1-14. For long stretches in the thriller it looked like the town lads but a few missed chances cost them dearly. This time, however, there was no time extension and Camross survived while Portlaoise were devastated.

Portlaoise never raised their game to the earlier heights and were rather disappointing against the Harps losing by 2-12 to 0- 11 in the second series. They now faced relegation having to face Borris/Kilcotton in the play-off. The game was fixed for the weekend of the Electric Picnic in Stradbally and Portlaoise sought a postponement because some of the young players had bought tickets for the big local event. Appeals went unheeded and once again the town hurlers were punished when a belowpar performance left them trailing 1-17 to 0-8 at the end and relegation to Senior One ‘B’ for 2015.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise bowed out at the quarter-final stage to Annanough by 0-17 to1-10 after a hard-fought game. The winners led by 0-8 to 0-6 at the break and Danny Carroll extended the lead to three points on the restart. A goal by Shane McManus had the scores level after 37 minutes and it looked as if the town could go on to win the game. But it was Annanough that finished the stronger despite Portlaoise’s brave efforts.

Intermediate Hurling

Portlaoise led by two points at the break against Park/Ratheniska but a deceptive long ball into the square from Jimmy Langton caught the Portlaoise defence napping at the three quarter stage and the Park/Ratheniska squad held out for victory by 2-11 to 1-10. The Harps had earlier beaten them 0-13 to 1-4 in an earlier game.

Junior 'A' Football

The Harps 2-10 to Portlaoise 1-8. Portlaoise 5-9 to The Rock 0-9. Courtwood 2-13 to Portlaoise 0-9.

Junior “B” Football

Lost to Graiguecullen 3-10 to 4-2.

Junior Hurling

Won first round beating Clough/Ballacolla 3-16 to 0-4 but were knocked out in round two by The Harps 4-13 to 0-10.

Under 21 Hurling

Portlaoise powered their way to the final for the first time in many years in the grade and came within a whisker of ousting the kingpins, Borris/Kilcotton, in a gripping finish. It was star forward, P.J. Scully, who left the biggest mark on the game finishing with a tally of 1-12 to and it was he who struck the lethal blow when he scored the vital goal with two minutes remaining. Portlaoise set the early pace with a blistering display and thanks to a goal by Colm Gleeson led by three points approaching the break. But the winners hit back with five unanswered points and led by one point 0-10 to 1-6 at halftime. Portlaoise fought back to level the game in the third quarter and it was touch and go until Scully finally settled matters with that late goal. It was a whole-hearted and encouraging showing from the town hurlers – certainly lots of talented hurlers and new promise for the coming years.

Portlaoise had to pull out all the stops to beat Castletown/Slieve Bloom in the semi-final. The game was in the melting pot with minutes remaining when a goal by Seamie Culleton and points from Cian Taylor and Daniel Delaney put them 2-11 to 0-11 clear at the end. The Town had beaten St. Fintans 3-12 to 3-6 in the opening round.

Under 21 Football

Beat Stradbally Parish Gaels 2-12 to 2-11 but lost to Graiguecullen 1-10 to 0-8

Minor Football

Beat Sarsfields 6-12 to 1-15 and O Dempseys 3-8 to 0-8.

Beaten by Portarlington 2-13 to 0-8.

Minor Hurling

Lost first round to eventual county champions Na Fianna on a 1-16 to 0-12 scoreline.

Under 16 Hurling

After leading by 4-6 to 1-6 at the break, Portlaoise went on to score a runaway 6-14 to 1-12 win over Borris-in-Ossory in the final. With just two minutes on the clock, Aidan Nealon shot to the net to put his team on the right road.

Aaron Bergin scored 1- 7 and Ronan O’Sullivan 2-1 as top marksmen while Lee Davis (1-2), Lorcan Duff (1-1), Niall Gleeson (0-2) and Ruari Lewis (0-1) completed the scoring on a great day for town hurling.

Under 14 Football League Three in a Row

Portlaoise's talented Under 14 footballers completed three-in-a-row of Division 1 League titles in 2014.

Facing Portarlington in the final, the Town side produced another impressive display to claim a 4-5 to 1-6 victory and add yet another trophy to an already impressive collection.

20th Under 14 Hurling Championship

Portlaoise captured the Under 14 Hurling Championship title for the 20th time in 2014 with an outstanding performance against Abbeyleix in the county final.

The Town side led by 4-5 to 2-2 at half-time and continued to press home their advantage after the break, eventually running out convincing winners on a 6-9 to 2-3 scoreline.

Cathal Duggan produced a superb individual display, finishing with a remarkable personal tally of 5-7, including 3-4 from play.

First Championship Success for Camogie Section

A landmark moment in the history of Portlaoise Camogie Club arrived on 27 August 2014 when the club's Under 12 team captured the first championship title ever won by the camogie section.

Playing against Camross in Slieve Bloom, Portlaoise produced a determined display to secure a 3-2 to 2-0 victory and write their names into the club's history books.

The team was jointly captained by Sarah Fleming and Gráinne O'Reilly, who became the first players to captain a championship-winning camogie team for Portlaoise.

2014 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Paul Cahillane
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 2-13 v 0-14 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 3 Portlaoise 2-9 v 0-9 St. Joseph's
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 2-14 v 0-9 Arles/Killeen Captain: Cahir Healy
• Men’s Football – Under 14 Laois U-14 Football Division 1 League Portlaoise 4-5 v 1-6 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 4-6 v 4-2 Portarlington
• Hurling – Under 12 Laois U-12 Hurling Division 2 Cup Portlaoise Whites 1-8 v 1-7 Mountrath
• Hurling – Under 14 Laois U-14 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-9 v 2-3 Abbeyleix
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 6-14 v 1-12 Borris Kilcotton
• Ladies Football – Senior Laois Ladies Senior ‘B’ Championship Portlaoise 3-7 v 1-13 Shanahoe
• Ladies Football – TG4 All-Star TG4 Ladies All-Star Ciamh Dollard
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 2-8 v 1-3 Graiguecullen
• Camogie – Under 12 Laois Camogie U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-2 v 2-0 Camross Captains: Sarah Fleming and Grainne O'Reilly

AGM

The year 2015 was a real roller-coaster with the senior footballers winning their ninth county title on the trot, the senior hurlers winning the “A” title and winning promotion back to the top division after a lapse of one year, the Under 21 hurlers winning their first title in fifteen years and the minor hurlers and Under 21 footballers beaten narrowly in their county finals. The senior footballers went on to reach the Leinster club final only to lose out unluckily by one point to the Dublin champions, Ballyboden St. Endas. The highlight of the year otherwise was the official opening of the new grounds at Rathleague in June by John Horan, Chairman of the Leinster Council.

Kieran Lillis won the Footballer of the Year award, Cahir Healy the senior hurling “A” award and Brochan O’Reilly was Referee of the Year. The new Coaching and Games Committee had a busy year. Seamus “Cheddar” Plunkett, who has been widely acclaimed for his success as manager with Laois hurlers in recent years was reappointed to the position for 2016. Another great Portlaoise player of the past, Mick Lillis, will be in charge of Laois footballers for 2016.

There was much sadness for the club during the year with the death of Paddy Bracken, who starred in goal for the club, county and province in the 1950s and ‘60s and was honoured on the Laois Millenium team in 2000. The Murphy family from Clondouglas suffered a triple blow with the deaths of Mick, captain of the first Portlaoise team to win a Leinster club title, his brother, Ned, a Portlaoise stalwart both on and off the field for many decades and Ned’s son, Brian, who was a star hurler with Portlaoise teams in the 1990s and later. There was also a great sense of loss in the Town with the news of the death of Tom Colgan, who was closely associated with the club for many years.

Jimmy Doyle, the famous Tipperary hurler, passed away unexpectedly in his home at Thurles in Jun 2015. Jimmy was involved in the coaching of Portlaoise hurlers from 1980 until 1985, during which time the Town won four senior titles in a row. He was hugely popular with the hurlers and loved coming to Portlaoise to meet up with all his old friends in later years. There was a big Portlaoise representation at his reposing at Semple Stadium and at the funeral on the following day.

Rathleague Officially Opened

A landmark day in the history of Portlaoise GAA took place on 14 June 2015 when Leinster Council Chairman John Horan officially opened the club's new grounds at Rathleague.

The occasion marked the completion of one of the largest and most ambitious development projects ever undertaken by a GAA club in the county. Years of planning, fundraising and voluntary effort had transformed Rathleague into a facility that would serve generations of players and members.

The official opening symbolised the beginning of a new era for Portlaoise GAA. Members, supporters and visitors gathered to celebrate the achievement and enjoy a family fun day that showcased the club's strong community spirit.

There was a festive atmosphere throughout the grounds with bouncy castles, amusements and activities for families. The St Joseph's Accordion Band provided the musical accompaniment and performed Amhrán na bhFiann as part of the official proceedings.

On the field, challenge hurling games between Portlaoise and Buffers Alley of Wexford provided entertainment for those in attendance and helped mark the significance of the occasion.

The opening of Rathleague represented far more than the unveiling of new facilities. It reflected the ambition, vision and commitment of countless volunteers and supporters who had helped make the project a reality and secure the future of the club for decades to come.

Nine in a Row for the Senior Footballers

Portlaoise 0-15 to Emo 2-9.

Rampant favourites, Portlaoise, had to pull out all the stops to save the day against surprise packets, Emo, in the final played on Sunday, October 18th. In a fairly pedestrian first half, Portlaoise always looked to have the edge but never fully exerted their authority on the game. They led fairly comfortably by 0-8 to 0-5 and seemed to be just doing enough to take their ninth title on the trot. But two fantastic goals by 42 years young, Mick Lawlor, early in the second half rocked the champions and after adding two more points Emo led by five points and in control.

A brilliant point by team captain, Kieran Lillis, sounded the beginning of an heroic rally that would save the day and force the game to a replay. Paul Cahillane and Conor Boyle added two more. Desperate situations need desperate measures and mentors, Malachy McNulty and Tommy Mulligan, threw the dice by first introducing Aussie Rules star, Zack Tuohy, in the 47th minute and then England based, Brian Glynn. They proved wonder moves for Zack sent over a fantastic point after a driving run to leave one point between the teams and then repeated the trick by sending over the equaliser much to the relief of the anxious Portlaoise following. Anxiety turned to ecstasy as Brian sent over what looked like the winner that saved the blushes against a superbly brave Emo squad who were not quite finished as they his back deep into injury time with an equaliser from a free by Paul Lawlor.

Portlaoise have a formidable record in replays going back half a century. It is almost impeccable and that reputation was further enhanced by this scintillating performance under lights on Saturday, October 24th. This time, Zach Tuohy was in the starting fifteen and he made his presence felt from the start. After an exchange of points, Zach was put through brilliantly by Brian McCormack and he made no mistake with a low cracking shot that took the sting out of the Emo men. Paul Cahillane almost got another one when his rocket shot rebounded off an upright.

Emo did show some fight and it took a superb flying save from Portlaoise keeper, Graham Brody, from a fine effort by the impressive Nigel Murphy, to keep his goal intact. At half-time the Town led by 1-8 to 0-3 and the second half was a cruise for the champions. Brian Smith, who enjoyed a fantastic year, played another man-of-the-match display, with a high work rate and four classy points from play to cap off a top performance. Paul Cahillane compensated for his earlier bad luck with a delightful goal near the end that wrapped up a fine and comprehensive win and a ninth title in a row.

In the semi-final. Portlaoise disposed of Arles-Killeen more decisively than expected. Their opponents had a league semifinal victory at their expense in the semi-final earlier in the year and came into this game on a good run of form and with high expectations. But the Town, seriously on the trail of a ninth title on the trot, upped their performance from the start and the game was effectively over when they led by eight points after eighteen minutes, helped by a neat goal from Craig Rogers. At half-time Portlaoise led by 1-9 to 0-7. A Paul Kingston goal in the third quarter brought his side within three points of their opponents, but further points from Portlaoise snuffed out the Arles-Killeen challenge.

Scorers:
Portlaoise: Craig Rogers 1-2, (0-1 from free); Brian McCormack 0-4 to Paul Cahillane (0-3 frees); Brian Smith (0-3); Gareth Dillon and Conor Dunphy (0-2 each); Kieran Lillis and Conor Boyle (0-1 each).
Arles-Killeen: Donie Kingston (0-5, 0-4 frees); Paul Kingston (1-0); Sean O’Shea and Jason Enright (0-2 each); Donie Brennan and Brendan O’Shea (0-1 each).

In the other semi-final, Emo continued to surprise the pundits, by securing a draw against Arles-Kilcruise. After dominating most of the game, it took a last minute pointed free by Evan Costello to force a replay. Emo went on the win the replay Earlier rounds: Portlaoise 1-12 to Stradbally 0-5; Portlaoise 1-16 to Killeshin 0-7; Portlaoise 4-18 to Mountmellick 0-5.

Leinster club championship

Portlaoise’s wonderful run in the Leinster club championship began with an historic 0-15 to 1-8 win over Carlow champions, Palatine. It must rank as one of the most memorable wins in Potlaoise’s proud history in the competition. There may have been more formidable opponents in the past, although Palatine could not be regarded as pushovers, especially with home advantage. But to play and win such an important encounter less than twenty four hours after winning the county title was, indeed, challenging to put it mildly. Yet the resolve of the Town lads was well up there with that of the great Portlaoise teams of the past and they came through the test with flying colours.

The Leinster Express report summed it up. “Remarkably it was in the final 20 minutes that they played their best football, as when they should have been flagging, they hit their second wind and pulled away … Brian McCormack came up with a few crucial points and Paul Cahillane’s reliability from frees were all crucial.” Portlaoise held a slender 0-5 to 0-4 lead at the interval. A palmed goal for Palatine set the alarm bells ringing with nine minutes left but a brilliant point from Cahir Healy and a pointed free by Cahillane clinched the victory.

One interesting aside from this amazing fixture was that the Palatine manager was Mick Lillis, himself a former star and All-Ireland club winner with the Town in 1983 and father of the Portlaoise captain, Kieran Lillis, who led by example throughout the 2015 campaign.

The second round game was against Kildare champions, Sarsfields, on Sunday, November 10th. It had been a traumatic week for Potlaoise manager, Malachy McNulty, whose mother, Violet, passed away on the Friday before the game at O’Moore Park. The home side were slow out of the traps and were three points down in the opening quarter. Indeed it was not until the 21st minute that Portlaoise opened their account with a point from Gareth Dillon. Paul Cahillane soon added another and then forced a penalty which Craig Rogers slotted home. Sarsfields lost a player in this incident through two yellow cards but still they hit back with two points before the break to level matters at 1-2 to 0-5.

The Kildare side edged ahead on the restart but Portlaoise hit back clinically when Cahillane set up Brian Glynn in the penalty area. His shot was blocked and Cahillane was on hand to finish to the net. It was tense stuff as the game hung in the balance and the game was level with three minutes remaining. Brian Smith sent over the winner and the Town held out for a hard-earned and highly emotional win at 2-5 to 0-10.

Portlaoise scorers: Paul Cahillane (1-1), Craig Rogers (1-0, pen.), Gareth Dillon (0-2), Brian McCormack and Brian Smith (0-1 each).

That win set Portlaoise up for a home semi-final tie with Longford champions, Emmet Og, Killoe, who had stormed through with wins over the Wexford and Meath champions.

Killoe came to O’Moore Park with a huge and vocal following and their flags and buntings added colour to the occasion. The visitors started off at a blistering pace and were two points up in the early minutes. But a superb move involving Conor Boyle and Conor Dunphy resulted in Craig Rogers sliding the ball to the net. Brian McCormack then slipped his cover and found the bottom corner of the net to help his side into a five point lead at the break.

Back came Killoe with two early points on the restart but Portlaoise were only getting into their stride at this stage and full-forward, Paul Cahillane, showed his class as a striker by engineering two quickfire goals. It was exhibition stuff all the way as substitute Ciaran McEvoy battled his way through for a fifth goal which put the icing on the cake for a 5-12 to 0-11 victory. The magnificent full forward line trio of Cahillane, McCormack and Rogers contributed no less than 4-11 on the day.

Portlaoise scorers: Paul Cahillane (2-6, 0-4 frees), Craig Rogers (1-3, 0-2 free), Brian McCormack (1-2), Ciaran McEvoy (1-0), Brian Mulligan (0-1).

Leinster final

Ballyboden St Enda 2-9 to Portlaoise 1-11.

Dublin champions, Ballyboden St Enda, provided the opposition to Portlaoise in the final in Tullamore on Sunday, 6th December. Dublin clubs have put a stop to Portlaoise in the club championship in every previous year since the Town last won the provincial title in 2009. This included nail-biting defeats to Ballymun Kickhams and St. Vincents in the finals of 2012 and 2013 respectively. Ballyboden entered the game as bookies favourites but that counted for little in the game itself as Portlaoise playing delightful football held the whip hand throughout. But having conceded two goals, at the early stages of the first half and just before the interval, some heart-breaking near misses, especially in the closing stages, left them a single point adrift at the end. It was a devastating result for the team and the huge concourse of fans who cheered them on.

Ballyboden were surprise packets in the Dublin championship and quietly progressed through Leinster beating St. Lomans of Westmeath by 1-11 to 0-9 in the semi-final. After an exchange of points Ballyboden fans were cheering when Andrew Kerins got inside the Portlaoise defence to scramble home a low shot that just evaded goalie, Graham Brody. The Dubs went four points up but Portlaoise kept battling and after points by McCormack and Eoghan Whelan the sides were level. Brody brought off a spectacular double save in an attack that ended in a pointed free from Conal Keaney. Little by little Portlaoise began to exert their authority on the game an good play was finally rewarded when Cahillane beat his man and fisted home a goal to put his side two points ahead just before half-time. The cheers had hardly died down when Ballyboden struck again with Michael Darragh McAuley shooting low past Brody to leave his side leading by 2-4 to 0-6.

After an exchange of points, Portlaoise continued to dominate outfield but were not transferring this to the scoreboard. Brian Glynn sent over a fine point from the right wing and then was denied of a goal when he was through but his shot was somehow diverted by Ballyboden keeper, Paul Durcan. Craig Rogers finally equalised and Portlaoise continued to play superbly but it was Ballyboden who scored next with a pointed free against the run of play. The sides were level and Portlaoise were looking far superior yet lady luck deserted them. Brian McCormack flashed through and with only the goalie to beat saw his brilliant pile-driver finger tipped onto the post by Durcan as Ballyboden clung on. Brian Smith had Portlaoise ahead again but once more Ballyboden lifted the siege and grabbed another equaliser from a free by Kerins.

Next it was the turn of Cahir Healy who typically raced upfield and snatched another lead point for the Town only for Ballyboden to grab another equaliser. Portlaoise forced a ‘45’ and Brody’s effort tailed off in the last yard or so and wide. In the 60th minute Aran Waters gained possession and kicked over what proved the winning score. Cahillane had a great chance to equalise but untypically his close free tailed off in the swirling wind just wide of the post. Conor Boyle next had a chance but his effort under pressure also missed the target. Commentators and fans reckoned that the young Carlow referee, John Hickey, gave a few harsh calls against the Town at vital times particularly the free that led to Basquet’s late point but overall it must be conceded that Portlaoise had the chances and failed to take them and that’s what wins and loses games.

It was a super performance overall and one of the best games of the entire GAA year. As Eugene McGee’s headline in the Irish Independent on the following day read: “True games like this one can save Gaelic football”.

Unfortunately Portlaoise lost out in the thriller but every player on the team played splendidly and gave their all for the cause. The bravery and tenacity of the Town performance was reflected in the performance of the young right-half back, Eoghan Whelan, to continue playing having suffered what was discovered later as a broken jaw in a clash late in the opening half.

Ladies Football

Portlaoise bowed out of the senior championship to Sarsfields by 1-9 to 0-2 in the semi-final.

The mentors were Sean Dunne, Bridie O’Reilly and Denise Carroll.

Senior A Hurling Championship Success

Having been relegated from the premier group in the previous year (which was a travesty of justice) Portlaoise did not delay in getting back in the premier competition through a series of well executed victories in the “A” championship. This began with a hard fought 0-17 to 0-14 win over Rosenallis in the opening round despite losing one of their players through a red card. This was followed by a more clear-cut 2-18 to 2-10 win over Ballyfin in a game in which they won despite their wastefulness. Mountrath were no match for them in the semifinal with the Town winning by 2-18 to 1-13.

The final against Clonaslee-St Manmans was played at O’Moore Park on Sunday. September 27 o the same programme as the senior final in which Clough/Ballacolla came back from the dead to defeat Camross. The defence, superbly led by Cahir Healy at centre half, were brilliant and watertight. There was little between the sides for the first twenty eight minutes but two points from Cian Taylor and a goal by Joe Phelan left them five points ahead at the break at 1-6 to 0-4.

One disappointing aspect of the opening half was the wastefulness in attack. They shot no less than ten wides in that opening half. Now playing with wind advantage it looked as if Portlaoise were about to win handsomely when Cahir Healy, Tony Byrne and Joe Phelan added to their opponents woes. Yet Clonaslee-St Manmans would not go away quietly and kept in touch and in contention. Then John Rowney hammered a 20 metre free to the net and suddenly only three points separated the sides.

This score seemed to give Portlaoise the “jitters” and Clonaslee were in the ascendancy. They shot three points to equalise the game and seemed set to finish off the task but Portlaoise showed spirit and determination and tacked on points from Phelan, Healy and Taylor to re-establish a three point advantage. The Town goalie, Noel Costello, was called upon to make a terrific save and there was another narrow escape when a ball was fumbled near goal but happily Portlaoise held out and won their way back to the top division after only one year’s absence on a 1-14 to 1-11 scoreline.

It may not have been the most convincing of displays but a win is a win and they showed plenty of spirit and finesse when it was most needed. Manager, John Taylor, accomplished what was their target for the year and a coveted Under 21 hurling title which was added later in the year, made it a splendid hurling campaign for the Town. Apart from seasoned campaigners, Noel Costello, Keith Murphy, Cahir Healy, Tommy Fitzgerald, Tony Byrne and Eoin Costello, this was largely a new squad comprised of minors and Under 21s. There must be great scope for further successes in the future.

The “A” championship final completed a double for the senior hurlers who defeated Abbeyleix previously in the Division One “A” league final. A point before half-time by Cahir Healy gave Portlaoise the lead at the break. A series of points from Aaron Bergin, Cian Taylor, Joe Phelan and a spectacular one from Tony Byrne gave Portlaoise some breathing space before the talented minor, Aaron Bergin, showed his class with two wonderfully executed goals to clinch the tie on a 3-16 to 1-10 soreline.

Intermediate Football

Portlaoise scored convincing victories over Spink (2-13 to 1-5) and The Rock (3-12 to 0-12) before being beaten by Courtwood 2-13 to 2-9 and outplayed by Timahoe 4-11 to 0-8. Timahoe led by six points at half-time and ran out easy winners. This win installed them as championship favourites but they were surprised in the final later in the year by Clonaslee-St Manmans.

Intermediate Hurling

Trumera 3-11 to Portlaoise 2-8; Portlaoise 2-10 to The Harps 1-13 (Draw); Portlaoise 1-9 to The Harps 0-10 (replay); Camross 2-13 to Portlaoise 1-8.

Junior Football “A”

Portlaoise 0-11 to Barrowhouse 0-14; Portlaoise 3-24 to Mountmellick 3-8; Portlaoise 0-3 to Park-Ratheniska 2-18

Junior Football “B”

Arles/Killeen 4-9 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Junior Hurling “B”

Portlaoise 3-15 to Rathdowney/Errill 3-13; Mountrath 3-10 to Portlaoise 1-7.

Under 21 Football

Portlaoise faced St. Josephs/Barrowhouse in the final on Sunday, December 20th at Ratheniska, just a week after the Under 21 hurlers had captured their first title in the grade for fifteen years. Pre-match confidence in completing the double prove unfounded as the Saints-Barrowhouse combination proved too strong on the day and fully deserved their 2-10 to 1-5 victory.

The Town lads were well in the game in the opening quarter when Jack Brown shot two points and Conor Dunphy added a third. But all this good work as negated by an opportunist goal by the winners’ full-forward, Mick Keogh. Aaron Rafter was a little unlucky when his shot at goal ended in the side-netting. By half-time the Saints-Barrowhouse combination had eased into a 1-5 to 0-4 lead. Three further points on the restart had the area team well in charge but the Town was given a lifeline when right-half back, Chris Finn, raced forward and found the net. There was only four points between the sides with ten minutes remaining but Peter Kealy hammered home a goal in the closing stages to clinch the title.

Portlaoise survived a first round scare when winning by the minimum at Portlaoise 0-12, Sarsfields 0-11. In the semi-final the Town side seemed to be cruising in dreadful conditions leading by 0-5 to 0-2 at the break. But Graiguecullen hit back with two quick-fire goals in the third quarter which rocked a complacent Portlaoise. The Town lads gradually regained their composure with points from John Kavanagh and Conor Dunphy. The key score came with ten minutes remaining when Brendan Carroll found the net and a couple of pointed frees from Conor Dunphy earned them a place in the final. Portlaoise 1-11, Graiguecullen 2-5.

First Under 21 Hurling Championship Since 2000

This was a huge boost for hurling in the club and bridging a fifteen year gap since the last title success in the grade. Portlaoise had not had the best of fortunes in hurling finals in recent years having lost out narrowly in the grade the previous year and the minors losing their final against Castletown-Slieve Bloom in a replay a little earlier in the year. Much pride has been restored as much by the manner of the success as much as the success itself. It was a really hardfought campaign covering six nail-biting finishes before finally emerging as champions for the first time since 2000. They got off to the best possible start when ousting the then reigning champions, Borris-Kilcotton in the opening round. This was a win that seemed to pass under the radar as it failed to get a mention in reports but the brilliant 1-23 to 0-22 victory was a significant one.

The next round against Rosenallis proved even tougher still. It went to three games before Portlaoise finally emerged winners, 2-16 to 1-14. The first game resulted in Portlaoise 1-13 to Rosenallis 2-10 and the replay also finished level at Portlaoise 0-20 to Rosenallis 2-14. The Town lads again showed their great never-say-die qualities in the semi-final.

Ballinakill were well on top in the opening half and with Cha Dwyer in super form led by 1-7 to1-3 at the break having hit nine wides into the bargain. Portlaoise had led briefly when Cian Taylor found James Nerney who shot a goal in the early stages. But Cha hit back with a point and then a goal from a 20 metre pile-driver to put his side in the driving seat. In a brilliant second half display, Chris Lynch, took control at midfield and this gave the impetus to a red-hot attack that added fifteen points to their half-time tally and simply outclassed their rivals on a 1-18 to 1-11 scoreline. Aaron Bergin finished with a personal tally of 0-12, nine coming from frees.

The final against Abbeyleix Gaels on Sunday, December 15th, was a thriller and, in a breath-taking finish, the Town proved masters at 0-13 to 1-8. Portlaoise can thank their brilliant goalkeeper, Philip Roche, who brought off two wonder saves in the final quarter. The first was when Abbeyleix forward, Jake Cranny sent a blistering shot towards the right bottom corner and Roche flung himself across the goal and got a saving touch. Then in the final minute Enda Rowland hammered a 30 metre free at goal which Roche deflected over the bar to save the day for his side.

Portlaoise trailed at the break by 1-5 to 0-5. Portlaoise kept in touch mainly through the accuracy of Aaron Bergin and the sides were level as time ran out. Cian Taylor put his side ahead and after an exchange of points from Rowland and Shane Whelan, Taylor was on hand again to rubberstamp the win with a point in injury time.

Minor Hurling

It was another brave campaign by the minor hurlers who only lost out in the final in a replay. But they showed that they are a force to be reckoned with once again at this level and combined with the victory of the U21 side and the Senior “A”, 2015 proved a very good year for Portlaoise hurling. The Town lads beat The Harps 3-16 to 2-15 in the opening round and then Rathdowney-Errill by 2-15 to 1-15 in the semifinal after leading by 1-9 to 0-9 at the break to qualify for the first final in the grade for fourteen years.

Portlaoise were four points up in the final against Castletown-Slieve Bloom with only a few minutes remaining but they conceded a few late scores which forced a replay at Portlaoise 0-17, Castletown-Slieve Bloom 1-14. At half-time Portlaoise led by 0-8 to 0-7 after shooting no less than 12 wides. When the Town lads led by four points in the 57th minute it looked like it was their title but a goal from Joe Phelan and a late point from Conor Phelan forced the game to a replay. A feature of the game was the thirteen points scored by ace forward, Aaron Bergin.

The replay was on Saturday, 3 October again at O’Moore Park and it was another thriller. The Town lads were very much in the game with bright prospects right up to the closing stages when the winners put on a final winning spurt. In a first half full of quality hurling and many fine scores the sides went in at the break level at 0-8 each. It was touch and go for most of the second half with Castletown first gaining a two point advantage but then points from Shane Whelan and Aaron Bergin (3) had the Town lads ahead by two with ten minutes remaining. Just when it seemed Portlaoise had gained the initiative Castletown dug deep and Dylan Conroy found Conor Phelan on the edge of the box and he fired home from close range. This gave the winners the impetus they needed to survive to the end. Aaron Bergin shot ten of Portlaoise’s thirteen points in another top star performance.

Final Score: Castletown/Slieve Bloom 1-16 to Portlaoise 0-13

Minor Football

July 27th: Graiguecullen 2-9 to Portlaoise 1-6.

Under 16 Hurling

Portlaoise just failed narrowly to annex the Under 16 “A” title in the final played at O’Moore Park on Saturday, 10 October. The Town lads were dominant in the opening half and a goal by Ruairi Lewis helped them into the break with a six point advantage. Camross came out more determined in the second period but Portlaoise resisted their best efforts until a quick-fire double goal spree from Eoin Dowling had the sides level around the three quarter stage. This provided the platform for Camross to push on for their slim victory by 2-10 to 1-10.

Under 16 Football

Under 16 “A” Football: Portlaoise 1-9 to Ballyroan Abbey 1-9; Portlaoise 5-8 to Ballyroan Abbey 1-1; Portlaoise 1-6 to Portarlington 0-18; Portlaoise 4-10 to Stradbally Parish Gaels 1-14; St Pauls The Rock 3-11 to Portlaoise 1-8.

The Under 16 “B” footballers won the League beating the Harps in the final 3-7 to 3-2.

Under 16 Ladies

Under 16s were narrowly beaten by Shanahoe in the ‘B’ final and a number of the panel were on the Scoil Ri team that won the All-Ireland Post-Primary schools final.

Under 14 Football

Results: Portlaoise 5-5 to Ballyroan Abbey 3-5; Portlaoise 5-7 to St Pauls 1-7; Ballyroan Abbey 3-12 to Portlaoise 1-3.

Under 14 Ladies

Portlaoise won the Under 14 “A” title by virtue of a 3-11 to 0-1 win over Shanahoe in the final. The same squad also won the County Feile.

They also enjoyed one of the standout achievements of 2015 when they captured the prestigious Kilmacud Crokes Sevens Plate title in September.

Competing against some of the strongest underage teams in the country, the Portlaoise girls produced a series of excellent performances throughout the tournament to reach the final.

In the decider they faced Athlone and rose to the occasion with another impressive display, securing victory to bring the coveted title back to Portlaoise.

Success in the Kilmacud Crokes 7's is regarded as a significant achievement in underage football and reflected the strength of the talented group emerging through the club at the time.

Under 14 Hurling

Results: Portlaoise 3-6 to Na Fianna 2-6; Rathdowney/Errill 3-10 to Portlaoise 0-4; Abbeyleix Gaels 3-17 to Portlaoise 0-0; Camross/St. Fintans 3-9 to Portlaoise 1-6.

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Footballers won the Shield beating Portarlington in the final 3-6 to 1-3.

Under 12 Football

Division One Cup final: Ballyroan Abbey 3-11 to Portlaoise 1-5.

Under 12 Ladies

The Under 12s won the county championship.

2015 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Kieran Lillis
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 0–15 2-13 (R) v 2-9 Emo Captain: Kieran Lillis
• Men’s Football – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘B’ Football League Portlaoise 3-7 v 3-2 The Harps Gaels
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 Football Division 1 Shield Portlaoise 3-6 v 1-3 Portarlington
• Hurling – Senior Laois Div 1 ‘A’ ACHL Cup Portlaoise 3-16 v 1-10 Abbeyleix Captain: Keith Murphy
• Hurling – Senior Laois Senior ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-14 v 1-11 Clonaslee St. Manman’s Captain: Keith Murphy
• Hurling – Under 21 Laois U-21 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 0-13 v 1-8 St. Lazerian's Abbeyleix Captain: Cian Taylor
• Ladies Football – Under 12 Laois Ladies U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise v Unknown
• Ladies Football – Under 14 All-Ireland Ladies 7s U-14 Kilmacud Crokes Portlaoise v Athlone
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-11 v 0-1 Shanahoe
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise v Unknown

AGM

Club History Book Released

One of the most significant historical milestones in the club's history took place in 2016 with the publication of C'mon the Town, Portlaoise GAA 1887-2016, a comprehensive account of the club's first 130 years. Compiled and edited by Teddy Fennelly and Brian Delaney and almost a decade in the making, the book represented an extraordinary research effort and captured the people, stories and achievements that shaped Portlaoise GAA from its foundation in 1887 through to the modern era.

The book was officially launched in County Hall in June before a large attendance of club members, supporters and invited guests. In his opening remarks, Club Chairman John Hanniffy paid tribute to co-authors Teddy Fennelly and Brian Delaney for their dedication and commitment to the project.

Describing the publication, John Hanniffy noted that it conveyed a strong sense of place and time, capturing the stories and personalities that had defined the club across generations. He reflected on the immense contribution Portlaoise GAA had made to the town and the role it had played in providing purpose, community and enjoyment to countless people over the decades.

Speaking at the launch, Teddy Fennelly explained that both he and Brian Delaney had a deep personal connection to the club, having been born and reared within the Portlaoise GAA community. He thanked County Librarian Bernie Foran and the staff of Laois Library Service for their assistance during the research process, noting that the club itself possessed very few meaningful historical records and that much of the material had to be painstakingly sourced from newspapers, archives and personal collections.

Teddy also acknowledged the contributions of John Phelan, who was researching the history of Laois GAA, journalist Seamus Dunne, photographers Alf Harvey and Denis Byrne, and many others who assisted with the gathering of information and images. Special tribute was paid to Jimmy Fitzpatrick, who had helped significantly with the project and whose recent passing added a note of sadness to the occasion.

The publication charted the club's journey from the early Maryborough teams of the late nineteenth century through to the golden eras of the twentieth century. Among the many achievements highlighted were the club's role in Laois' Leinster Senior Football Championship victory in 1889 and the remarkable successes of the 1980s, a decade which occupied more than sixty pages of the book and included county and provincial titles in both football and hurling, as well as the All-Ireland Club Football Championship triumph of 1983.

Brian Delaney thanked Print Central for their work in producing the publication and acknowledged Eamon Fennelly's contribution to the player profile sections. Together, the authors created a publication that combined detailed historical research with personal stories, photographs and records that might otherwise have been lost forever.

Launching the book, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council Catherine Fitzgerald described Portlaoise as one of the leading clubs in Ireland and praised the voluntary spirit that had underpinned its success throughout its history. While acknowledging the challenges faced by previous generations, she remarked that the club had always remained "poor but proud."

The release of C'mon the Town generated considerable interest both locally and nationally. Following the successful launch in County Hall, the publication received a second launch in Croke Park on 10 November 2016. Hosting the event at GAA headquarters was a significant honour and reflected the standing of Portlaoise GAA within the Association. The occasion celebrated not only the book itself but also the club's rich contribution to Gaelic games over the previous 130 years.

Senior Football

Quarter-final (Replay): Portlaoise 0-12 to 1-5 St Joseph's played at O Moore Park on Friday, September 23rd, 2016.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-11 to 1-11 St Joseph's played at O Moore Park on Saturday, September 17th, 2016.

Round 1: The Heath 0-6 to 2-12 Portlaoise. Round 2 Winners: Arles-Kileen 1-8 to 1-14 Portlaoise.

First Senior Ladies County Final

A landmark moment in the history of Portlaoise Ladies Football arrived in 2016 when the club reached its first-ever Senior Ladies Football Championship Final. It was the culmination of years of development and hard work and marked a significant breakthrough for the ladies section.

Standing between Portlaoise and a historic first senior title were Sarsfields, the dominant force in Laois ladies football at the time. Sarsfields arrived at O'Moore Park seeking a fourth consecutive county championship and were widely regarded as one of the strongest teams in the county.

Despite their underdog status, Portlaoise produced a courageous and highly competitive performance. The Town girls matched their more experienced opponents for long periods and refused to be overawed by the occasion, displaying the determination and resilience that had carried them to their first senior final.

In a closely fought contest, Sarsfields' ability to find the net ultimately proved decisive. Portlaoise battled throughout and kept themselves firmly in contention with a steady stream of scores, but eventually fell short on a scoreline of 2-11 to 0-12.

Although the result did not bring the fairytale ending the players had hoped for, the 2016 campaign will always be remembered as the year Portlaoise Ladies Football broke new ground and reached its first senior county final, a significant stepping stone on the journey towards future championship success.

Senior Hurling

Intermediate Football - Third ACFL Division 2 Title

Portlaoise's intermediate footballers enjoyed league success in 2016 when they captured the ACFL Division 2 title with an emphatic victory over Annanough.

The final took place at Ratheniska on Saturday, July 16th and saw the Town produce a dominant display from start to finish. Portlaoise's attacking power proved too much for their opponents as they ran out convincing 6-3 to 0-6 winners.

Semi-final: Portlaoise 0-13 to 3-2 Courtwood played at Pairc Acragar on Sunday, July 10th, 2016.

Round 1: Clonaslee St Manmans/Cluain na Slí Naomh Meanmain 1-6 to 4-11 Portlaoise. Round 2: Portlaoise 3-11 to 2-6 St Joseph's. Round 3: Portlaoise 3-6 to 0-4 The Rock GAA Club. Round 4: Annanough 2-11 to 2-10 Portlaoise. Round 6: Portlaoise 3-12 to 0-8 Clonaslee St Manmans/Cluain na Slí Naomh Meanmain. Round 7: St Joseph's 0-8 to 1-8 Portlaoise. Round 8: The Rock GAA Club 2-6 to 1-13 Portlaoise. Round 9: Portlaoise 3-18 to 2-11 Annanough.

Intermediate Hurling

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 21 Football

Under 21 Hurling

Minor Football

Minor Hurling

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 16 Football

Under 16 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 14 Football

Under 14 Hurling

First Under 14 Camogie Féile na nGael and Championship Wins

Portlaoise Camogie enjoyed a landmark season in 2016 as the Under 14 girls captured both the Féile na nGael title and the county championship for the first time.

Cpatained by Naoimi Ogbulafor, the Féile final was played in difficult conditions in late March, with Portlaoise defeating Camross by 2-2 to 1-1. Portlaoise won the toss and opted to play against the wind, with heavy rain and strong gusts making conditions testing for both sides.

Camross made the stronger start, registering an early goal and point, but the Portlaoise defence settled well. Sinead Murphy and Jasmine Burke helped keep the Camross attack under control while Naomi Ogbulafor and Regina Ogbulafor worked tirelessly in search of scores that would not come easily.

Aoibhe O'Brien opened Portlaoise's account with an excellent point before half-time, leaving Camross ahead by 1-1 to 0-1 at the interval. With the wind behind them in the second half, Portlaoise began to build momentum.

Rachel Glynn struck a vital goal early in the second period to bring Portlaoise right back into the contest. Niamh Graham was dependable with her puck outs, Rebecca Reddin repeatedly won possession, and Gráinne O'Reilly and Zuzanna Tuszynska linked the play impressively between defence and attack.

Anna Dillon, Aoife Ennis and Sarah Fleming helped keep Camross in check before Ciara Byrne drove through the middle and sent over the score that put Portlaoise in front for the first time. Shauna Dooley then sealed the win with a magnificent goal, hand-passing the ball to the net to secure a memorable Féile triumph. Final score was 2-2 to 1-1.

The rivalry with Camross continued into the championship final at the end of July. Two years earlier, the clubs had met in the Under 12 final when Portlaoise claimed a famous first title.

The championship decider was tense from the outset. Portlaoise set much of the early pace but were met by fierce pressure from the Camross defence. It took fourteen minutes for the first score to arrive, with Gráinne O'Reilly pointing a long-range free from 50 metres. Six minutes later, Camross centre-forward Ciara Leahy replied with a similar effort and the sides went in level at half-time at one point apiece.

After the restart, O'Reilly converted an early free before Leahy again drew Camross level. The next twenty minutes were breathless, with both defences dominating. Sarah Fleming was outstanding at full-back for Portlaoise, while Leanne Dowling and Lusine Delaney were superb for a Camross side chasing a fourth title in succession.

With a replay beginning to look likely, Portlaoise finally found the decisive breakthrough. Eight minutes from time, a long delivery from Aoibhe O'Brien reached full-forward Shauna Dooley. She gathered possession and showed great composure to hand-pass the ball to the net, beating the excellent Aedin Lowry and putting Portlaoise in front.

Camross threw everything at Portlaoise in the closing stages, but the Town defence stood firm. Rebecca Reddin was brought back to strengthen the rearguard and Portlaoise held out through five minutes of injury time to secure a famous championship victory.

Under 14 Ladies Complete Féile and Championship Double

The Portlaoise Under 14 ladies footballers captured both the Féile Peil na nÓg title and the county championship in 2016.

The first major success arrived in early April when Portlaoise defeated Graiguecullen by 4-9 to 1-6 in the Féile Peil na nÓg final.

The Féile success earned Portlaoise the opportunity to represent Laois at the National Féile Peil na nÓg competition. Travelling to Kerry, the girls performed superbly throughout the weekend and progressed to the quarter-final of the Division 2 Cup. Their impressive run eventually came to an end in Farrenfore where they were defeated by Kilcullen GFC of Kildare on a scoreline of 2-5 to 1-4.The final was played at Farranfore on Saturday, June 25th, 2016.

Round 1: Portlaoise 1-2 to 3-4 Killygarry GAA Club/CLG Coill an Gharraí. Round 2: Desmonds 1-1 to 1-6 Portlaoise. Round 3: Listowel Emmets 1-2 to 0-11 Portlaoise.

Having secured Féile honours, Portlaoise set their sights on championship success and continued their impressive form throughout the summer. Their efforts were rewarded in September when they completed the double with a comprehensive victory over Ballyfin in the county final.

Portlaoise produced an excellent attacking display to defeat Ballyfin by 4-11 to 3-3 and secure the Under 14 championship title. Goals proved decisive as the Town girls combined attacking flair with defensive resilience to claim another county crown.

The squad featured a number of players who were becoming well known throughout the county for their achievements across multiple codes. Sarah Fleming, Aoife Ennis, Rebecca Reddin, Ciara Byrne, Gráinne O'Reilly, Shauna Dooley, Rachel Glynn and others played central roles in a season that would be remembered as one of the most successful in the club's underage history.

Capturing both the Féile Peil na nÓg and county championship titles in the same year represented a remarkable achievement and reflected the tremendous work being carried out within the club's ladies football structures. The success also highlighted the strength of a generation of players who would continue to contribute to Portlaoise teams in the years that followed.

The victorious panel included Cliodagh McCann, Sinead Murphy, Sarah Fleming, Aoife Ennis, Rebecca Reddin, Ciara Byrne, Zuzanna Tuszynska, Julia Cahill, Jasmine Burke, Faith Bennett, Aoibhe O'Brien, Tara Byrne, Gráinne O'Reilly, Shauna Dooley, Jessica Saunders, Rachel Glynn, Alison Whelan, Corina Stokes, Sinead Brady, Bronagh Carroll, Aoife Hannify, Kyra Oaseni, Alisha McGregor, Molly McCabe, Annol Kalpur, Ella Byrne, Ailbhe Quinn and Molly Gleeson.

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Hurling

Under 12 Football

Under 12 Hurling

Laois Voice Fundraiser Draws Huge Support

In 2016, Portlaoise GAA staged one of its most successful and entertaining fundraising events when the club organised the inaugural Laois Voice competition in the Midlands Park Hotel.

The event was organised at a time when significant fundraising was required to support the club's ongoing development and activities. A dedicated committee comprising Paul O'Connell, Olga Loughman, Martina Phelan, Malcolm Nealon, Jennifer Fitzpatrick, Catherine Fitzgerald and Sandra Hanniffy, together with many other volunteers, worked tirelessly to bring the ambitious project to life.

Inspired by popular television talent competitions, the event saw fifteen contestants take to the stage in front of a packed audience. The evening combined music, entertainment and community spirit, attracting widespread support from club members and the wider Portlaoise community.

Throughout the competition the performers impressed both the audience and judging panel with a wide range of musical talent. The event created a fantastic atmosphere and quickly became one of the standout social occasions of the year.

At the conclusion of the competition, Jimmy Keenan was awarded the coveted People's Choice Award following a public vote, while Chris Conroy claimed the Judges' Choice Award after impressing the judging panel with his performance.

Noel Tuohy, Anne Conroy and Ollie Plunkett served as judges on the night and were widely praised for the professionalism, good humour and encouragement they brought to the competition.

Civic Reception for Zach Tuohy

In 2016, Portlaoise native Zach Tuohy was honoured with a civic reception in County Hall in recognition of his outstanding sporting achievements both at home and in Australia. The event attracted a large attendance and reflected the pride felt throughout the town and wider county in the accomplishments of one of Portlaoise GAA's most distinguished players.

The Council Chamber was filled with family, friends, club members, former teammates and community leaders. Representatives from across Laois football were present, while the Portlaoise GAA delegation was led by club president Dick Sides. Many of those who had played a role in Zach's development attended, including former teachers, mentors and coaches who had guided him during his early years in the club and at school.

The reception marked a significant occasion as Portlaoise Municipal District Chairman John Joe Fennelly presented Zach with a Certificate of Civic Achievement, the first such honour ever awarded by a municipal district in County Laois. The presentation recognised not only his success as an athlete but also the manner in which he represented his club, county and country abroad.

Speaking during the evening, Zach displayed the humour and humility for which he is well known, joking that he could happily sit listening all night to people speaking about how great he was. Joining him at the reception were his partner Rebecca and young son Flynn, while members of the Tuohy family travelled to celebrate the occasion.

Much of the discussion centred on Zach's remarkable sporting journey. Having first played football with Portlaoise at the age of seven, he progressed through every underage grade before becoming one of the club's most successful senior footballers. By his early twenties he had already collected nine Laois Senior Football Championship medals and county honours at every level.

Particular mention was made of his famous goal for the Laois minor footballers against Derry in Croke Park in 2007. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goals ever scored at the stadium, it remained the only minor football score included among the fifty greatest goals ever compiled in a national ranking.

After moving to Australia, Zach successfully transitioned to Australian Rules Football and established himself as one of the leading Irish exports in the sport. He made over one hundred appearances for Carlton, earned selection on the prestigious All-Australian team, the equivalent of an All-Star award, and had recently completed a high-profile move to Geelong.

The reception brought together several generations of Portlaoise and Laois football. Former players including Jas O'Reilly of the famous 1964 Portlaoise team and Colm Browne, captain of Laois' 1986 National League-winning side, were among those in attendance. Club officers, volunteers, mentors and supporters also gathered to acknowledge Zach's achievements.

2016 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 2 Portlaoise 6-13 v 0-8 Annanough Captain: Colin Finn
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 4-6 v 1-3 Ballyroan Abbey
• Hurling – Under 16 Laois U-16 ‘A’ Hurling Shield Portlaoise 1-11 v 0-4 Rosenallis
• Hurling – Under 13 Laois U-13 Hurling Super Touch Cup Competition - Shield Portlaoise 1-11 v 0-6 Borris-in-Ossory Kilcotton
• Ladies Football – Under 14 Laois Ladies U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 5-10 v 4-3 Ballyfin
• Ladies Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Ladies Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 4-9 v 1-6 Graiguecullen
• Camogie – Under 14 Laois Camogie Féile na nGael Portlaoise 2-2 v 1-1 Camross Captain: Naoimi Ogbulafor
• Camogie – Under 14 Laois Camogie U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-2 v 0-2 Camross Captain: Naoimi Ogbulafor

AGM

Ten Senior Championships in Eleven Seasons

After the disappointment of seeing their quest for ten consecutive county titles come to an end in 2016, Portlaoise returned to the summit of Laois football in 2017. Victory over Ballylinan in the county final secured the club's 34th Senior Football Championship and an astonishing tenth championship success in eleven seasons.

Played in difficult conditions in O'Moore Park, with a heavy mist hanging over the ground throughout, the final initially looked set to be a stern test for the Town. Ballylinan made the brighter start and opened up a three-point lead midway through the first half through the accuracy of Gary Walsh and scores from Alan Farrell and Andy McEvoy.

Portlaoise gradually settled into the contest. Ciarán McEvoy opened their account before Scott Lawless struck the game's first goal following good work from Adrian Kelly and Benny Carroll. Paul Cahillane then edged Portlaoise in front before adding a superb point from play. Moments later, Cahillane struck for a crucial goal after Brian McCormack's incisive pass split the Ballylinan defence.

Those scores helped Portlaoise establish a 2-6 to 0-7 lead by half-time and they never relinquished control. Scores from Adrian Kelly, Conor Boyle and Cahillane extended the advantage as Portlaoise dominated possession and dictated the tempo of the game.

Ballylinan continued to battle through the efforts of Gary Walsh, but the Town remained composed. Late points from Cahillane and Boyle put the result beyond doubt before substitute John Kavanagh added a third goal after being unselfishly set up by Cahillane. The final whistle confirmed a comprehensive 3-13 to 0-10 victory.

Paul Cahillane once again proved instrumental, finishing with 1-6, while Scott Lawless, John Kavanagh, Conor Boyle and Adrian Kelly all made significant contributions. Defensively, Portlaoise were solid throughout, with captain Kieran Lillis leading by example as the team reclaimed the Jack Delaney Cup.

The victory represented far more than another championship title. It demonstrated the resilience of a team that had dominated Laois football for over a decade and responded positively after the setback of 2016. Winning ten championships in eleven seasons was an extraordinary achievement and further cemented Portlaoise's place among the greatest club teams in the county's history.

Semi-final: Portlaoise 1-12 to 1-8 Graiguecullen played at O Moore Park on Sunday, October 1st, 2017.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 0-15 to 1-4 O'Dempseys played at O Moore Park on Saturday, September 16th, 2017.

Round 1: Arles-Kilcruise 1-14 to 3-13 Portlaoise. Round 2 Winners: O'Dempseys 1-14 to 5-14 Portlaoise.

Senior Hurling

Intermediate Football

Final (Replay): Emo 3-11 to 3-4 Portlaoise played at O Moore Park on Friday, October 6th, 2017.

Semi-final: Rosenallis 2-10 to 3-14 Portlaoise played at McCann Park on Friday, September 15th, 2017.

Quarter-final (Replay): Portlaoise 1-11 to 1-10 The Rock GAA Club played at Stradbally GAA on Wednesday, August 30th, 2017.

Quarter-final: Portlaoise 1-10 to 0-13 The Rock GAA Club played at Pairc Acragar on Saturday, August 26th, 2017.

Round 1: Portlaoise 1-12 to 0-8 Barrowhouse GAA. Round 2 Winners: Emo 2-13 to 1-11 Portlaoise.

Intermediate Hurling

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 21 Football

Under 21 Hurling

Quarter-final (Replay): Borris-in-Ossory Kilcotton 3-17 to 4-17 Portlaoise played at LOETB Centre of Excellence on Tuesday, October 31st, 2017.

Quarter-final: Borris-in-Ossory Kilcotton 1-18 to 2-15 Portlaoise played at Colt GAA on Sunday, October 8th, 2017.

Minor Football

Minor Hurling

Minor Ladies End Nine-Year Wait for Championship Success

The Portlaoise minor ladies footballers returned to the top of the county in 2017 when they captured the Minor Ladies Championship title, ending a nine-year wait since the club's previous success at the grade in 2008.

The championship final took place in Páirc Acragar, Mountmellick, in early November and produced a thrilling contest against Ballylinan-Killeen. Portlaoise displayed tremendous determination and attacking flair throughout to emerge victorious on a scoreline of 2-15 to 4-5.

The win represented a significant achievement for a talented group of players who had developed together through the underage ranks. Their success rewarded years of hard work and commitment from players, coaches and families and provided another important milestone for ladies football within the club.

While Ballylinan-Killeen found the net on four occasions, Portlaoise's ability to consistently score points proved decisive. The Town girls played with confidence and composure, building scores throughout the game and ultimately securing a deserved championship victory.

The triumph ended the club's longest wait for a minor ladies championship title since the breakthrough success of 2008 and highlighted the continued strength of underage ladies football in Portlaoise.

For many of the players involved, the victory was another chapter in a successful underage journey and laid the foundations for future contributions to adult football within the club.

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 16 Football

Under 16 Hurling

Under 15 Football

Under 14 Hurling

Back to Back Camogie Féile and Championship Doubles

Following their breakthrough successes in 2016, the Portlaoise Under 14 camogie team returned in 2017 to achieve something even more remarkable. The girls successfully defended both their Féile na nGael and county championship titles, completing back-to-back doubles.

The Féile campaign began with a tense county final against The Harps. In a game dominated by defences, Portlaoise emerged victorious by the narrowest of margins, 0-1 to 0-0, to retain their Féile crown and once again earn the right to represent Laois at the National Féile na nGael.

Travelling to Wexford, the Portlaoise girls were hosted by Bannow-Ballymitty and competed in Division 3. They produced an outstanding series of performances in the group stages, proving too strong for Oylegate, Clár Átha Dála and their hosts Bannow-Ballymitty, winning all three games to progress confidently to the knockout stages.

A quarter-final meeting with Cork side Newcestown followed on Saturday and Portlaoise rose to the occasion once more, recording an impressive 3-1 to 0-3 victory to reach the national semi-finals.

Their Féile journey eventually came to an end against Galway champions Salthill. While Portlaoise competed bravely throughout, Salthill's ability to convert goal chances proved decisive as the Galway side advanced on a scoreline of 3-2 to 0-2. Despite the defeat, reaching the last four of the National Féile was a tremendous achievement and highlighted the quality of the squad.

The season's crowning moment arrived later in the year when Portlaoise met Camross in a repeat of the 2016 Under 14 Championship Final. The Town girls delivered a sensational attacking performance, scoring seven goals to secure a comprehensive 7-5 to 3-2 victory and successfully defend their county title.

It was a fitting conclusion to another outstanding campaign. Having already retained their Féile title and reached the national semi-finals, Portlaoise now added a second successive championship crown to complete another memorable double.

The achievement underlined the strength of a talented generation of players who had become one of the most successful underage camogie teams in the club's history. Their back-to-back doubles represented a significant milestone for Portlaoise Camogie and demonstrated the rapid progress being made within the section.

National Féile Peil na nÓg Heartbreak

The Portlaoise Under 14 footballers enjoyed one of the most memorable campaigns in the club's history in 2017, capturing the county Féile Peil na nÓg title before embarking on a remarkable journey to the National Féile Division 1 Final. A title they last won in 2009.

The adventure began in O'Moore Park in early April when Portlaoise defeated Ballyroan-Abbey by 1-4 to 0-4 to secure the club's seventeenth Laois Féile title. The victory earned the team the honour of representing Laois at the National Féile finals, which were hosted in County Cavan later that summer.

Facing some of the strongest underage football teams from across Ireland and overseas, Portlaoise rose magnificently to the challenge. They navigated the group stages with three impressive victories over Ardboe, Lavey and Cuchulainns, progressing to the knockout stages with confidence and momentum.

In the quarter-final, Portlaoise overcame Armagh Gaels to continue their impressive run before producing another outstanding performance to defeat Naomh Colmcille in the semi-final and book their place in the Division 1 National Final.

The final was played in the iconic surroundings of Breffni Park, where Portlaoise faced New York. Reaching the Division 1 decider was a tremendous achievement for the young Town side and represented one of the finest Féile campaigns ever produced by a Portlaoise team.

On the day, however, New York proved too strong. Their ability to convert goal chances made the difference as they secured a 3-7 to 0-2 victory. While the result was disappointing for the Portlaoise players, it could not diminish the scale of what they had achieved throughout the competition.

Although the campaign ended in heartbreak in Breffni Park, reaching the National Division 1 Final remains a landmark achievement and stands as a testament to the talent, commitment and determination of a remarkable Portlaoise team.

Under 13 Football

Under 12 Hurling

Under 12 Football

Gaelic4Mothers & Others Established

A significant new chapter in the club's commitment to inclusion and participation began in 2017 with the establishment of a Gaelic4Mothers & Others group in Portlaoise GAA.

The initiative was first publicly announced through an advertisement published in the Laois Nationalist on 7 March 2017. The notice invited women aged eighteen and over who wished to learn or play Gaelic games to get in touch with organiser Catherine Doyle.

The concept was designed to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for women who had previously played football but had stepped away from the game for various reasons. It also sought to encourage complete newcomers who had never played before but wanted to become involved in a fun, healthy and social activity.

Unlike traditional competitions, Gaelic4Mothers & Others focused on participation rather than results. The emphasis was on enjoyment, exercise, friendship and community, with members encouraged to play at their own pace in a relaxed and supportive setting.

The response to the initiative was extremely positive and it quickly became an important part of club life. Participants found not only an opportunity to enjoy Gaelic games but also a chance to build lasting friendships and become more involved in the wider Portlaoise GAA community.

Catherine Doyle played a leading role in establishing the group and was supported by a dedicated team of volunteers including Kevin Farrell, Olga Loughman, Phil O'Keefe and Sarah Byrne. Their enthusiasm and commitment were instrumental in getting the programme off the ground and ensuring its continued success in the years that followed.

What began as a simple call for interested participants grew into one of the club's most successful participation initiatives. Gaelic4Mothers & Others continues to embody the values of inclusivity, friendship and lifelong involvement in Gaelic games, providing opportunities for women of all backgrounds and abilities to be part of the club.

Peter O'Neill Appointed Laois GAA Chairman

Peter O'Neill was elected Chairman of Laois GAA at the County Convention in December 2017.

Although originally a native of County Offaly, Peter had become one of the most respected and influential figures within Portlaoise GAA through years of service as a coach, administrator and volunteer. His appointment to the highest office in Laois GAA was warmly welcomed throughout the county and particularly within his adopted club.

Upon taking office, Peter outlined his vision of making the Association more inclusive and accessible to all. He believed strongly that every member of the GAA family, regardless of age, ability, background or role, should feel valued and have a meaningful place within the organisation.

Club Lotto Jackpot Won

One of the biggest Club Lotto prizes in the history of Portlaoise GAA was won in the summer of 2016 when Liam Connell matched all four numbers drawn to claim the jackpot of €11,000.

The winning numbers, 4, 8, 12 and 23, were drawn on Thursday 27 July. The Club Lotto had become an increasingly important source of income for Portlaoise GAA, helping to fund teams, facilities and ongoing development projects.

There was widespread delight when Liam's name emerged as the winner. A lifelong supporter of the Town, he had proudly worn the green and white jersey during his playing days and represented the club in both hurling and football.

2017 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Gareth Dillon
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 3-13 v 0-10 Ballylinan Captain: Kieran Lillis
• Men’s Football – Under 12 Laois U-12 Football League Division 5 Portlaoise 3-10 v 2-10 Portarlington
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 2-12 v 0-3 Ballyroan Abbey
• Men’s Football – Under 14 & Under 15 Laois Féile Peil na nÓg Portlaoise 1-4 v 0-4 Ballyroan Abbey
• Ladies Football – Minor Laois Ladies Minor ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 2-15 v 4-5 Ballyroan
• Ladies Football – Under 16 Laois Ladies U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 2-14 v 2-3 Graiguecullen
• Camogie – Under 12 Laois Camogie U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 3-2 v 1-1 Camross Captains: Susie Delaney and Aoibheann Dalton
• Camogie – Under 14 Laois Camogie Féile na nGael Portlaoise 1-0 v 0-0 The Harps
• Camogie – Under 14 Laois Camogie U-14 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 7-5 v 3-2 Camross Captains: Rachel Glynn and Grainne O'Reilly
• Camogie – Under 16 Laois Camogie U-16 League

AGM

Portlaoise GAA AGM was held in Rathleague on 24 January 2018, with Acting Chairman James O'Reilly opening the meeting and welcoming members to the club grounds.

The meeting reflected a period of transition within the club. Several officer positions were left to be filled by the incoming committee, with James O'Reilly continuing as Acting Chairperson, Jennifer Fitzpatrick as Acting Secretary and JP Cahillane as Acting Treasurer.

A major talking point on the night was the need for a full review of the club both on and off the field. Seán Plunkett raised the issue before the election of officers, stating that a root and branch review of the club, including its grounds and adult hurling structures, was required.

Following a lengthy discussion, it was agreed to establish a review sub-committee led by Seán Plunkett, with R. Downey, E. Fennelly, T. Fitzgerald, A. Daly, P. Cahillane and M. Nealon also appointed. The group was tasked with preparing a strategic review of the club and identifying candidates for the key officer roles of chairperson, secretary and treasurer.

Membership was discussed in detail, including adult, student, juvenile and social membership rates, while the possibility of introducing family membership was also raised.

Team management appointments were confirmed for several football grades, including Malachy McNulty, Stephen Cotter and L. Dunne with the senior footballers. Owen Delaney, Mark Brophy and Phil Scully were appointed to the intermediate football team, while D. Fitzpatrick, J. Fennell, C. Dunphy and P. Scully were named for junior football.

In hurling, the meeting noted that senior management remained unresolved, while intermediate and junior appointments were to be referred to the first committee meeting. The club also agreed to oppose the proposed restructuring of Under 20 hurling to Under 19 level.

The AGM concluded with discussions around membership compliance, Club Lotto sales, club procedures, and votes of sympathy. A minute's silence was observed for all members and friends of the club who had passed away during the previous year.

Senior Football

AGM

The AGM reflected on one of the busiest years in the club's history. While celebrating significant achievements across football, hurling, ladies football and camogie, members also approved ambitious plans that would shape the future of Portlaoise GAA for decades to come.

Chairman James O'Reilly thanked the hundreds of volunteers whose work kept every aspect of the club running throughout 2018. Special acknowledgement was given to the Lotto committee and volunteers, the grounds committee, juvenile coaches, school coaching officers Adrian White and Pat Critchley, club sponsors, shop volunteers, the organisers of the annual Club Night, together with the officers and committees of both the ladies football and camogie sections. Their collective efforts continued to strengthen one of the largest GAA clubs in the country.

Particular praise was reserved for the senior hurlers who restored Portlaoise to the county's top tier after winning the Senior A Championship before embarking on a memorable run to the Leinster Intermediate Club Final. Congratulations were also extended to the Junior C hurlers on their championship success, while the football management teams and players at every adult grade were thanked for their dedication throughout the season.

One of the most significant developments of the evening came when members overwhelmingly supported a proposal to begin the next major phase of the Rathleague development. The motion committed the club to preparing plans and submitting a planning application for a permanent clubhouse before the end of 2019, with construction intended to take place over a number of phases beginning with new dressing rooms.

To drive the project forward, a dedicated development sub-committee was established consisting of Michael Nerney, Catherine Fitzgerald, Joe Lalor, John Hanniffy and Vincent Dowling. Members were also informed that funding already set aside would allow the installation of floodlights on Pitch 4, while maintenance work on Pitches 1, 2 and 4, together with future drainage improvements for Pitches 5 and 6, would continue as part of the long-term masterplan for Rathleague.

The meeting also highlighted the club's growing focus on governance and organisation. Updated membership structures were approved, while the Club Safety Statement, Standard Operating Procedures and Complaints Procedure were formally ratified, reflecting the increasingly professional administration required to support a club of Portlaoise's size.

Elections saw James O'Reilly returned as Chairperson, Catherine Fitzgerald elected Vice-Chairperson, Malcolm Nealon as Secretary and JP Cahillane as Treasurer. Owen Delaney continued as Football Secretary, Seamy Fitzgerald as Hurling Secretary, while Adrian White and Pat Critchley remained as Coaching Officers. Representatives from ladies football, camogie and juvenile sections completed a committee that would oversee another important year in the club's development.

Looking ahead, members heard details of plans for further investment in facilities, coaching and player development. The vision outlined during the meeting would ultimately provide the blueprint for one of the most ambitious periods of infrastructure development in the club's history and help shape the modern Portlaoise GAA Club.

Senior Football

Senior Hurling

Intermediate Football

Junior Football

Junior Hurling

Under 20 Football

Under 20 Hurling

Ladies Minor

Under 17 Football

Under 17 Hurling

Under 16 Camogie

Under 15 Football

Play Off: Portlaoise 4-10 to 3-10 O'Dempseys played at Rathleague on Friday, June 21st, 2019.

Round 2: Portlaoise 4-13 to 4-8 Na Fianna Óg. Round 3: Ballyroan Abbey 1-8 to 2-18 Portlaoise. Round 4: Portlaoise 6-6 to 5-12 Stradbally Parish Gaels. Round 5: O'Dempseys 1-10 to 6-7 Portlaoise.

Under 15 Hurling

Under 14 Football

Under 13 Football

Under 13 Hurling

Under 12 Camogie

Under 11 Football

Under 11 Hurling

2019 honours

• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Footballer of the Year Kieran Lillis
• Men’s Football – Under 17 Laois U-17 ‘A’ Football League Portlaoise 3-12 v 2-4 Park Ratheniska Spink
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 1 Portlaoise 2-14 v 2-11 Ballyroan Abbey
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois ACFL Div 4 Portlaoise 2-16 v 0-9 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Senior Laois Senior Football Championship Portlaoise 0-14 v 2-7 Killeshin Captain: David Seale
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Football Championship Portlaoise 0-17 v 1-12 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘C’ Football Championship Shield Portlaoise 3-6 v 3-5 Clough Ballacolla
• Men’s Football – Under 15 Laois U-15 Division 1A Football League Portlaoise 5-7 v 1-9 Graiguecullen
• Men’s Football – Under 13 Laois U-13 'C' Football League Portlaoise 5-6 v 1-13 Mountrath
• Hurling – Minor Laois Minor ‘B’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 1-13 v 1-8 Castletown Captain: Jamie Keenan
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Hurling Championship Portlaoise 3-19 v 1-12 Abbeyleix St Lazarians
• Hurling – Under 15 Laois U-15 ‘A’ Hurling League Portlaoise 8-6 v 1-6 The Harps
• Hurling – Under 13 Laois U-13 ‘A’ Hurling Championship B Shield Portlaoise 8-13 v 0-1 Clonaslee St Manmans
• Ladies Football – Minor Laois Ladies Minor ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise v Graiguecullen
• Camogie – Under 12 Laois Camogie U-12 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 1-2 v 1-1 Naomh Eamonn Captains: Ailbhe Carroll and Aoife Morris
• Camogie – Under 16 Laois Camogie U-16 ‘A’ Championship Portlaoise 0-11 v 1-6 Camross Captains: Sinead Murphy and Grainne O'Reilly