Late Tom Moran remembered at Community Games AGM

Fourteen areas attended the AGM of Roscommon Community Games on Monday, November 17th, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon.

Areas in attendance included Ardcarne, Ballaghaderreen, Ballintubber/Ballymoe, Boyle, Castlerea, Croghan/Drumlion/Cortober, Drum/Clonown, Elphin, Kilgefin, Roscommon/Kilteevan, Strokestown, Tarmonbarry/Scramogue, Taughmaconnell and Tulsk. Apologies were received from Breedogue/Ballinameen, Kilbride and Kiltoom/Cam.

Chairperson Yvonne Hanbury acknowledged the extraordinary community spirit that continues to drive the organisation forward.

One of Community Games’ most loyal and dedicated supporters, Tom Moran, was remembered.

A true gentleman in every sense, Tom served with distinction as a former county chairperson, as a valued member of the county executive and the appeals committee among other roles.

He was described as fair, calm, and always kind — someone one could count on, whether it was marking out the athletics track or offering guidance. His leadership, humility and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Roscommon Community Games offered its deepest condolences to his wife Bridie, daughter Ann-Marie, sons Michael and Ciarán, and the extended Moran family on their sad loss.

Ms Hanbury went on to speak about Community Games being more than sport, cultural activities or competition. She highlighted that it was about giving every child, regardless of background, ability, or circumstances, a chance to discover their talents, make friends, grow in confidence, and feel part of something bigger than themselves.

The meeting heard that Roscommon was one of the few counties nationwide that offered a full programme of events in 2025.

“Our young participants are the heart of the Games. Whether they reached provincial or national finals, or simply took part for the first time at their local area event, they represented the very best of Roscommon. Their enthusiasm and sportsmanship make our work worthwhile and rewarding,” said Ms Hanbury.

“Looking ahead, we face both opportunities and challenges. Volunteer recruitment, funding, and safeguarding remain ongoing priorities.

“I am confident that, working together, we will continue to strengthen and grow Community Games in Roscommon. Our focus for the coming year will be on regenerating lapsed areas, expanding participation in smaller areas, increasing our volunteers, and ensuring that every child in the county has access to the full range of events,” she continued.

Secretary Declan Regan reflected on a very successful year for local at county, regional, provincial and national level.

He thanked the Roscommon Executive Committee, alongside all the volunteers across the county who helped arrange venues, co-ordinate events, referee, adjudicate competitions and helped in various ways behind the scenes. He paid particular tribute to PRO, Bernie Ryan, for showcasing the achievements of the young people of County Roscommon, ensuring that every child got a mention in the local media.

County Treasurer Geraldine Kavanagh was also thanked by the secretary for all her hard work in keeping track of payment activities from affiliation, games entry and payment of fees to referees and venues.

There were no nominations for any officer’s positions. Ann Kilroy from Croghan/Drumlion/Cortober has replaced Tom Moran on the Appeals Committee. Elaine Lally (Roscommon/Kilteevan) has stepped down from the Executive Committee and will be replaced by Siobhan Kilroe (Roscommon/Kilteevan).

The development committee will be working with lapsed areas, including Oran, Athleague/Fuerty/Kilbegnet, FBD Roads and Kilglass, with the intention of forming committees in their areas, so that the children can participate in Community Games events next year.