Sports Capital Grant: The Scotstown club received confirmation early this week that we have been successful in our application for funding from the Sports Capital fund of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. This year saw the highest number of applications ever received under the programme. The club were one of 15 organisations who were successful in attracting a portion of the funding to county Monaghan. The money will allow the club to continue with the first phase of the redevelopment work at the Kilmore East training grounds. Credit and thanks is due to those who worked hard on the application, making it a success.

Mouthguards: Following the GAA’s Annual Congress in April 2012 a new rule was enacted that made it mandatory to use a mouthguard in all Gaelic football matches and training sessions from January 1st 2013 (for all age grades up to and including minor). The rule will not come into effect at Under 21 and Adult level until January 1st 2014. Players will not be covered under the player injury scheme if they are not wearing a mouthguard. There are three types of mouth guards: stock mouthguards (around €5), boil and bite mouthguards (€15-€20) and custom fitted mouthguards (€60 – €120). Custom fitted mouthguards purchased in bulk in this manner should cost around €30 to €50 each. The decision on which type of mouthguard a player should obtain is a matter of personal preference.   There is no doubt that custom fitted mouthguards offer the best fit and protection but they are the most expensive option also. The Stock and Boil & Bite options will suffice for compliance with the new rules, but only if the product carries the CE mark. Official Opro GAA/GPA stock and boil & bite mouthguards will be available for purchasing through local retailers: Supervalu, Centra, Lifestyle and Elverys. For more information on this subject, please see the official GAA website.

Bar Rota: Stephen & Niall McKenna.

Condolences: Sympathy is extended to the family and friends of the recently deceased including Anne Sheridan (nee Meehan), formerly Drumscor and Oliver Plunkett, Tullycroman.