Ger Dineen Tournament 2002

The inaugural Ger Dineen Memorial Tournament took place recently at Church Road in glorious weather conditions. The Under 12 hurling team from the host club Blackrock were joined by the Under 12 teams from Newtownshandrum, Bray, Tulla, Durles Og and Bishopstown in a blitz competition for the right to claim the Ger Dineen Memorial Cup presented by the Dineen family.

The prestigious tournament was held in memory of the late Ger Dineen, who sadly and unexpectedly passed away just over a year ago. Ger was an dedicated and tireless worker for the Blackrock National Hurling Club and St Michaels Football Club and left a lasting and positive impression on all those lucky enough to come into contact with him in the day-to-day activities of the clubs.

The hurling and sportsmanship in the tournament were of the highest order during the course of the day, with Newtownshandrum defeating Tulla in one semi-final while Blackrock accounted for Thurles in the second. These results set up a final between Newtownshandrum and Blackrock, a preview of the next days Senior County final.

Newtownshandrum took an early lead however Blackrock fought back to be ahead by just two points at half time. The Blackrock under 12 team which recently won a highly competitive county title at this grade gradually gained control in the second half and emerged victorious after a great game of hurling. A large crowd applauded both teams from the field.

It was indeed fitting that Mr. Denis Dineen should present the cup on behalf of the Dineen family to his son Richard, captain of the Blackrock team and a nephew of the late Ger. In his acceptance speech Richard described the huge honour it was for him to win the trophy and thanked his family for their support, generosity and assistance in supporting the memorial tournament. He thanked the participating teams, his teammates, the teams coaches, Eamon O'Donoghue, Chairman and Billy Reidy Vice- Chairman of Blackrock National Hurling Club under-age section who organized the event, and all involved with the massive catering operation on the day. Ger Dineen would have been proud of his nephew and his favourite team.