The junior championships for the Muskerry Division were launched before a huge attendance in Cloughduv last Thursday night. This new initiative was supported by all the participating clubs and sponsors while divisional officers from across the county also attended.

Chairman Pat Malone urged the clubs to continue their support for the competitions which have come under threat in recent times. “It is imperative that everyone from across the Muskerry division remains loyal to the championships that have served us so well for many years. It is a great privilege to welcome officers from other divisions to this launch and we appreciate their support. Our football competition remains hugely competitive and Iveleary were worthy champions last season. Cloughduv also flew the flag in hurling and it shows the loyalty and friendship within our division that everyone is there to support our teams in the county championships.”

The Ross Oil JAFC looks highly competitive again this season with so many teams capable of winning out. Iveleary are the defending champions while Canovee, Kilmurry and Kilmichael also look leading contenders. Tim Holland represented the sponsors and focussed on the value of divisional championships. “We have seen a different winner over the last number of years which proves how competitive the junior football championship has become. There is very little to separate so many clubs in this competition and the local rivalries involved make this competition so special."

The Ballincollig Credit Union JAHC was also launched and Simon Foley represented the sponsors on the night. Cloughduv are the worthy favourites in this competition but Ballinora, Blarney, Donoughmore and Ballincollig will also have aspirations on winning this competition. Simon Foley said: “Cloughduv enjoyed a terrific season and went all the way to the county final. They have a number of very exciting younger players coming through which makes them the team to beat. However, Ballinora have made great strides in recent seasons while a number of other clubs including Kilmichael have made their mark at this grade recently."