April 30th, 2021

A Chairde,

This week’s 3 page edition includes “Bits & Bytes” from the past week, a Quickfire question round with Kildare Senior Hurler Paddy McKenna and Kildare Senior Footballer Paul Cribbin.

“Bits & Bytes”

  • This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first Féile na nGael. The Development CCC met last week to discuss its scheduling for 2021. Subject to public health guidelines permitting it was agreed to celebrate this special milestone by organising the John West Féile na nGael and Féile Peil na nÓg on 21st and 28th August respectively at County Level only.
  • Correspondence from Uachtarán CLG Larry McCarthy for all juvenile team coaches, as well as return to play and training advice and information issued from the GAA’s Coaching and Games Development department last Friday evening.
  • The GAA has commenced work on a new Strategic Plan which aims to shape the GAA’s focus for the next 5 years. Club members will be provided an opportunity to input during the consultation process. Watch this space for further info!!
  • Reminder that the deadline for Club Membership subscription is 31st May 2021. All Clubs are asked to ensure all players are registered ahead of their return to play dates.
  • Kildare GAA Coaching and Games are seeking applications for coaching rolesin hurling & football for this year’s Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps. Requirements: All applicants must be over the age of 18 years & have proven experience in a GAA coaching role. To request an application email: murphy.gda.kildare@gaa.ie Deadline for applications is Friday 21st May.
  • Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps was officially launched on Monday. The camps will be held throughout the county during the months of July & August. Registration is now open via https://www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie/
  • Bord na nÓg are now accepting entries for 2021 competitions. Clubs are asked to note that all registration forms are to be submitted to Bord na nÓg Secretary by 5pm next Wednesday.
  • TG4 and Eir Sport this week announced the details of their Allianz Leagues coverage for 2021. Kildare’s opening National Football League v Cork on 15th May will be broadcast live on Eir Sports.
 

Quickfire Questions with Kildare Senior Footballer Paul Cribbin

Age: 28
Club: Johnstownbridge
Senior Inter County League Debut: 2013 V Tyrone.
Senior Inter County Championship Debut: 2013 V Offaly.
Pre-Match Day Routine: Get a good carbohydrate dense meal in for breakfast, go to Mass and usually meet the lads for a coffee in the local cafe.
Pre match rituals: Packing the gear bag and giving the boots a wash the night before a game.
Toughest opponent: Too many to mention.
Team you most like to beat: Any of the local rivals is always a nice one.
Proudest Day: Making my senior debut.
Toughest or most disappointing day: Losing the Hogan Cup final with my school in 2009.
Biggest influence on your career: The Cribbin Family.
Joker in the panel: Mick O Grady.
Best Dressed: Fergal Conway has lovely teaching attire.
Worst Dressed: Mark Donnellan – doesn’t wear clothing that fits him.
Player do you admire from another sport: Mat Fraser- A fitness phenomenon.
Manager from another sport do you admire: Klopp- gets the best out of his players.
 

Quickfire Questions with Kildare Senior Hurler Paddy McKenna

Age: 26
Club: Clane
Senior Inter County League Debut: 2013 vs Laois.
Senior Inter County Championship Debut: 2015 vs Wicklow.
Pre-Match Day Routine: Wake up & make breakfast (porridge &fruit) then check over my gear bag and make sure everything is packed and my hurls and grips are ok. I then go for a walk and after that relax and do light stretching. Once I finish that, I have my pre-match meal (pasta & chicken) and then head to the venue.
Pre match rituals: Once I arrive at the pitch I go out and check the pitch and particularly the goalmouths.
Toughest opponent: Jack Fagan, Meath – He’s capable of winning a game on his own & can score from anywhere.
Describe yourself in three words: Determined, Dedicated, Unselfish.
Proudest Day: Winning the Christy Ring in 2018.
Toughest or most disappointing day: Any day I concede a hape of goals is a tough day!
Biggest influence on your career: My parents and underage coach, Bernard Crowley.
Joker in the panel: Jack Travers.
Best advice you were given: Develop both sides not just your ‘strong’ side.
Best Trainer: Niall O’Muinicheain
Teammate most likely to be a future manager: Paul Divilly
If there was a transfer market, who you buy: Tony Kelly – you could play him anywhere!