The Hillgrove Hotel, Monaghan, welcomed young GAA members from all over the country on Saturday, January 25th, as it played host to the annual All Ireland Scór na nÓg Finals. The under-17 cultural competition returned to an Ulster venue for its ultimate round for the first time since 2017, and as always, a wonderful spectacle of talent and club pride was on display.
Roscommon GAA had excellent representation in this final. In the Tráth na gCeisteanna (Question Time) round, the the Kilglass Gaels team of Tara Hall (Rory Conroy, Domhnall Diffley and Daniel Fallon) performed admirably among the competing twelve finalists early on Saturday morning. Unfortunately, they did not progress to the final stage rounds this year and the competition was won by Naomh Columda, Donegal.
In the Aithriseoireacht/Scéalaíocht (Storytelling) category, Matthew Ffrench from Kilmore GAA was in top form. He held the large audience in the grip of his hand with his confident and poised delivery of his self-penned piece, “How I found Scór”. Appearing in his second final, Matthew’s performance was one for Roscommon and Kilmore to be proud of, but the title went to Alanna Coroon of The Downs GAA, Westmeath.
Elphin GAA had the arduous task of beginning the Novelty event in the Hillgrove. The team of Annie Kelly, Ryan Carroll, Roise Keane, Patrick Kelly, Tara Nolan, Cillian Carney, Moya Kelly and Henry Gunn gave a hilarious and energetic account of their sketch, “Can I come?”. It was topical, comical and so well acted, a performance of a very high standard to make Roscommon and Connacht proud. Enniskillen Gaels from Fermanagh emerged as winners in what was a great competition.
CLG Ros Comáin commends the efforts of all of the young competitors on the national Scór stage. Reaching the final alone is a great achievement, and to hold county and provincial honours is wonderful for any club. CLG Ros Comáin are excited to welcome back these talented Gaels next year.
CLG Ros Comáin would also like special word of recognition to Noel Dervan of St Dominics (originally Ballygar), who did an excellent job as Question Master in this year’s Scór na nÓg Final. Noel is a vastly experienced Scór competitor and quiz master, and it was fantastic to see his diligence and expertise recognised in Monaghan.
All focus now turns to Scór Sinsir (the over-17 competition). The county final of Scór Sinsir will take place on Saturday, March 8th, in Kilmurry Hall.
Coiste Scór appeals to all clubs to send at least one representative to the county final. Every club has people interested in quizzes, a singer, or someone able to recite a poem. With simple effort, clubs ensure their members can enjoy being part of Scór.
On March 8th, proceedings will commence at 5.30pm with the Tráth na gCeisteanna Boird (Table Quiz Round), with top three progressing to the stage event. All other stage disciplines begin at 7pm.
If your club would like to get involved or need more information, please contact 087 9145557 / 087 9471081 or email irishculturalofficer.roscommon@gaa.ie.
