Recently Lámh Dhearg relaunched handball in their clubrooms . Handball was first introduced in 1989 under the driving influence of the late John Dunne and Paul Lynch. Beginning in Division 8 they climbed divisions rapidly and by 2003 were playing in Division 3.
The club soon began to pick up individual honours beginning to happy with Ambrose O’Neill winning our first individual title followed by the Herron brothers winning County titles. In 1998 Brendan Herron won the under 15 All Ireland title at Conna, County Cork while Michael Herron was runner up in All Ireland under 15 in 2000.
In 2003 Kevin Holmes won an all Ireland colleges title and was u21 All Ireland Doubles Champion.
Chairman Brian Smyth spoke enthusiastically about the relaunch of handball in the club and was excited about the future as we have upto 25 juveniles now training regularly and an upcoming coaching course for our coaches . Brian complimented the Handball committee for their time and work in relaunching handball and is confident that Handball will become a success in the club.
Special Guest, local handball legend , former over 35 world champion and Hall of fame Handball Member Billy Silcock said he was delighted to see handball being relaunched in the club . Billy was glowing in his praise of the inspirational late John Dunne and Paul Lynch in organising Handball in its early years. Billy told the new squad of handballers and parents of juvenile players how much enjoyment he derived from his career and that they will enjoy playing handball and that it will also develop and enhance their football and hurling/ camogie skills . Billy was inspirational in his address and spoke of the importance of listening and respecting their coaches and the need to practice regularly and wished the new players all the best .
Paul Maguire and Siobhan Doyle from Lockdown Security presented a new set of jerseys to the handballers. Paul commented “ We are delighted and proud to continue to partner Lámh Dhearg and wish the Handballers all the best on their relaunch and indeed exciting times lie ahead for them.”
