A chairde,
It is an honour to present my report for 2025, a year of continued growth and steady progress for Naomh
Barróg. The club remains in a strong position thanks to the hard work of our members, volunteers, and
committees.
Growth and Participation
Membership now stands at a record 1,406, up from 909 in 2022 — an increase of more than 50 percent
in three years. Special thanks to Brendagh Hampson, our new Registrar, who has managed registrations
through the Clubforce platform and made the process smoother for players and families.
From Barróg Beaga on Saturday mornings to our senior teams under the lights of Páirc Barróg, every
corner of the club is active. We now field over 60 teams across football, hurling, camogie, and ladies’
football — supported by hundreds of mentors and volunteers. The success of our Mini Leagues, the
expansion of Juvenile Boys and Girls, and the continued growth of Dads & Lads, Gaelic 4 Mothers &
Others and Social Camogie show that Naomh Barróg truly is a club for all ages.
On the Field
I want to begin by thanking all of our volunteers — from coaches and mentors to those who quietly take
care of the jobs that often go unseen, like washing bibs and jerseys, lining pitches, opening gates, or
organising teams. It’s that collective effort that keeps Naomh Barróg moving forward and makes this
club what it is.
This year also saw the launch of our new club jersey, developed with McKeever Sports, who now manage
our online store. The design has been well received, and I want to thank Alan Martin and Darach Ó
Donnchú for their work in bringing it to life.
I would like to acknowledge the work of our Games Committee, who have done an excellent job
improving communication with our teams and ensuring the consistent implementation of club policies,
all of which are available on our website. Their efforts have provided clear support and structure for our
mentors and players at every level.
Our aim across all teams, particularly at juvenile level, remains player development and player retention,
not winning at all costs. We are proud of the way our coaches uphold these values, creating an
environment where players can enjoy the game, learn, and grow.
Finally, I want to recognise and congratulate all Naomh Barróg players who represented their county this
year across the various age groups and codes. Their efforts reflect well on the entire club, and they serve
as great examples for our younger players.
Coaching and Player Development
The Coaching Committee continues to support mentors and improve player development across all
levels. The appointment of Gordon Mac an Bhaird as Games Promotion Officer has been a positive
addition, helping to rebuild school links and encourage more young players into Gaelic Games.
Facilities
Our clubhouse is now 25 years old, and while it continues to serve us well, it requires significant work to
meet the needs of a growing club. The Meitheal Project has been established to coordinate this effort.
Much like our coaches and committee members, many volunteers have generously given their time and
skills to carry out practical work on the clubhouse and its surroundings. This programme reflects the best
of Naomh Barróg’s community spirit — people coming together to improve what we share. Particular
thanks go to Ruairí Martin, Aubrey Dornan, Colin Clarke, and Alan Dunne in this regard.
The installation of new ballstops was completed thanks to the Croke Park Abseil fundraiser, led by our
Naomh Barróg ladies, whose efforts made this possible. We were also delighted to receive a new club
van from Windsor Motors Raheny, which has already become a key resource for maintenance and match
support.
Special thanks to Mick Feeney, Seán Croft, the FÁS team, and all those involved in maintaining our
pitches and facilities for their constant hard work and dedication in keeping them in excellent condition.
Sustainability – Building for the Future
2025 saw the launch of our first Sustainability Committee, which has already introduced initiatives in
recycling, biodiversity, and energy efficiency. Their work will ensure the club continues to grow in a
responsible and sustainable way.
Finances and Governance
It has been a challenging financial year, with increased costs and reduced sponsorship, but our accounts
remain transparent and well managed. The Finance Committee has identified steps to restore balance,
including bar restructuring, sponsorship renewal, and tighter cost control.
Community, Culture, and Wellbeing
Naomh Barróg continues to prioritise player welfare and community spirit. The Child Protection and
Wellbeing Committee has strengthened safeguarding and delivered successful programmes such as
Ahead of the Game and Every Step Counts.
Our cultural programme, Barróg don Ghaeilge, continues to promote the Irish language through the Pop
Up Gaeltacht, Seachtain na Gaeilge, and Irish signage throughout the club.
Communications and Engagement
Under Martin Crummy, our communications have developed significantly, with over 2.9 million online
views across all platforms this year.
We are introducing club forums, a WhatsApp Community, and a revamped newsletter to make
communication more open and effective, ensuring members are kept informed and involved in club life.
People and Appreciation
We remember with respect those we lost this year — Tony Manton, Fr Cathal Price, Betty Flood, Con Ó
Donnchú, and David Flood. Their contributions will not be forgotten.
Thank you to all our mentors, referees, and volunteers who give their time so freely. To Club Secretary
Barry Rafferty, our Executive Committee, and all subcommittees — your work underpins everything the
club achieves.
Looking Ahead
Our main priorities for 2026 are:
• Delivering the Gym Development Project
• Strengthening financial sustainability
• Recruiting and supporting volunteers and referees
• Continuing to grow participation across all ages and codes
Naomh Barróg remains in a strong position thanks to the efforts of its people — their commitment,
teamwork, and humility. If we continue to work together, we can achieve even more in the years ahead.
Go raibh maith agaibh go léir.
Diarmuid McHugh
Cathaoirleach, Naomh Barróg CLG
