RUFC Club Newsletter - October 2025
- Raheny United
- Oct 4
- 10 min read
This month we are back in full swing as the new season is well underway. The pitches may be off this weekend, but there's still loads going on. Dig in below to find out what's happening.
And so, a new era begins...
The summer break feels like a distant memory as our senior LSL Intermediate men’s team has been back on the training ground since July 7th, hard at work and building towards a hugely exciting season.
The focus has been clear: assemble a strong, competitive squad capable of challenging for promotion. We are thrilled to announce that this summer has seen an incredible injection of talent, with no less than nine new players pulling on the black and white. Their energy and quality have already made a big impact on the pitch, and we extend a massive welcome to each of them.
While every new signing is a cause for excitement, one addition has particularly caught the eye. We are delighted to confirm that Sam Burgess will be joining the squad upon his return to Ireland in October. Sam, an Ireland amateur international, brings a wealth of quality and experience, and we cannot wait to see him in action and welcome him properly to the club.
In football, as in life, we must sometimes say goodbye to key figures. This season, we bid a sad but fond farewell to our captain, Ben Mahon, who has left for London to pursue a work opportunity for the year. Ben has been a tremendous leader for this team, and his presence will be missed. We all wish him the very best in his new adventure and look forward to the day we see him back at Raheny.
We also say a heartfelt thank you to Gary Kelly, who has retired from intermediate football and now moves on to our 35’s team. Gary was a fantastic leader and a rock at the heart of our defence for many successful seasons. His commitment, passion, and consistency were an example to everyone. We thank him for his service and wish him all the very best.
With so many new faces, the chemistry is building with every session and every game. The results so far from our opening four games tell only part of the story. The performances have been strong, full of promise, and a clear indication of the potential of this group.
The foundation is laid, the squad is strong, and the future is bright.
G'wan Raheny!
Annual General Meeting 2025
Raheny United’s Annual General Meeting 2025 was a chance to celebrate a hugely successful year both on and off the pitch. From exciting clubhouse renovations to continued growth across our senior and junior teams, the club is in a strong position heading into the new season. A huge thank you goes out to our players, coaches, parents, and volunteers who make it all possible.
u10s at the Kells Celtic tournament
The annual Kells Celtic Youth Tournament brought its usual mix of football drama, sunshine, and determined parents to Co. Meath. This year featured an international debut from Denmark’s Vallensbæk IF, while Raheny United’s U9s arrived in style, full of confidence and ready to make their mark.
In the group stages, our lads faced Carrick Rovers, Athboy Celtic, Redeemer Celtic, and Rivervalley Rangers. Raheny did well in all games, and the firepower of Paolo Macari, Sean Larkin, Finn O’Neill, and Killian Campion, was clear for all to see!
The quarter-final saw Raheny face the hosts, Kells Celtic, who stormed into a 2–0 lead before halftime. But after a rallying team talk from James Bridgeman, Raheny roared back with two quick goals.
Defenders Sean Guinan, Max Cusack and Spencer Lowther held firm while wave after wave of Raheny attacks rained down, only to be denied by a Kells keeper seemingly protected by a forcefield.
Even Matthew Allen’s last-gasp effort rolled just wide. The game went to penalties. Raheny’s brave volunteers stepped up, but Kells proved clinical, edging it 3–2.
Though beaten, Raheny left with pride intact, showing skill, spirit and no shortage of drama. Huge thanks to Kells Celtic for a fantastic tournament. Next year, our boys will be back.
Season kickoff: a note from our chairman
Dear members,
At Raheny United, we want every match to be a positive experience for players, coaches, referees, and families. The Silent Sidelines initiative, along with the FAI Code of Conduct and DDSL Respect Campaign, is there to remind us that football is about learning, enjoyment, and respect. By supporting quietly, respecting referees, and encouraging fair play, we can help create the best environment for our young players to grow. As another season kicks off at Raheny United, we want to begin by saying a huge thank you. Your support and generosity keep our club alive, and we’re proud of the positive reputation we have built up through the conduct of our players, coaches, and supporters.
This year, we’re putting a special focus on sideline behaviour with one simple message: It’s Their Game.
Our goal is to give the children the freedom to play, learn, and enjoy football in a calm, supportive environment. We ask all parents and supporters to help by following these principles:
No sideline instructions !!
No shouting !!
No negativity !
Instead, let’s keep the focus on encouragement, respect, and enjoyment:
Let the players play
Let the refs ref
Let the coaches coach
Positive support makes all the difference. It shapes how much fun children have, how confident they feel, and how much they’ll want to keep playing. Together, let’s make this entire season safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Regards, Aidan O'Looney, Club Chairman
U12s battle hard
Raheny United's U12 Division 4 side began their league campaign with a great battle and narrow defeat away to Leixlip. From early on it was clear there was little between the sides, and that a single goal might decide it.
The first half was tight, with chances at a premium. Raheny keeper Domhnall Fynes pulled off a fine save from long range, while Rob Earley’s brilliant run was halted by a foul just outside the box.
The game opened up after the break. Leixlip twice hit the woodwork but were kept at bay by strong defending from Ollie Higgins and Dylan McIntyre. At the other end, Zach Champ struck the post, with Harley Weston, Liam Roe-Devine, Dylan McIntyre and Frankie Cleary all testing the Leixlip goal from distance.
The breakthrough came 10 minutes from time, Leixlip heading home after a rebound off the crossbar. Despite a spirited push for an equaliser, Raheny just couldn’t find the goal their play deserved!
It was a frustrating result, but one full of positives for coaches Glenn Cleary and Ger Weston. The boys done their coaches and travelling supporters very proud. Well done, lads!
Fair game-time
At Raheny United, one of our three key development principles is that we prioritise individual development over team success.
With this in mind, the club committee have a fair game-time policy:
Up to and including U11: Equal playing time.
U12 to U14: 25%-50% (this means a minimum of 25% in one particular game with a minimum of 50%, on average, over the season).
U15 to U17: 25%-40% (this means a minimum of 25% in one particular game with a minimum of 40%, on average, over the season).
From U18 onwards: There are no guidelines around fair game time in adult football.
Coaches may decide to use playing time as a way to promote team values, recognise effort and commitment, and regular attendance at training.
For reference, our club policies are available in-full on our website here.
U8s kitted-out and looking the part.
We’re delighted to welcome our new sponsor, Mark from Royal Upholstery Dublin, who has generously come on board to support our U8.10 team this season. His contribution has helped kit out the team in style, and we’re truly grateful for his generosity. A special mention also to Conor, Mark’s son, proudly showing off the new gear in the photo.
Meet your Child Welfare Officer - Anne Cheevers
As the new season begins, it's vital that the welfare and protection of every child at Raheny United remains front and centre. Child protection means that our coaches are vetted and have undergone safeguarding training. This is a lot of work in already busy lives so I am extremely grateful to all our coaches for ensuring these requirements are met. The child welfare piece spreads across the entire club community and to echo what Aidan said, every one of our young players has the right to attend their training and matches without adults being aggressive to coaches, refs or parents. They have the right to be cheered on for their efforts, regardless of the score. Additionally, they have the right to be coached by someone who is a positive, supportive figure in their lives and while showing them the skills of the game, creates a fun and safe environment for them.
As Child Welfare Officer, my role is to support our brilliant coaches as they navigate the vetting and safeguarding process, which can sometimes feel like a lot of paperwork and admin. Above all, I am here to ensure our younger players are safe and enjoy being members of our club.
My background is Youth Work - I spent 15 years working with the most wonderful young people in communities across Dublin. It was a job I loved. Children and young people will keep you young(ish!), honest and entertained, working with them is an absolute privilege. Like the FAI, Raheny United adopts a child-centered approach, meaning that the needs and welfare of the child is at the heart of all decisions. This is a very exciting time for the club, the clubhouse has never looked better and improvements continue. Our community has grown significantly, supported by the most amazing coaches, volunteers & families. Central to it all, are our young people - we want them to know that they are the foundation of our wonderful community and that they truly matter.
Please know that I am always available if anyone has any concerns regarding the welfare and safety of a child. You can contact me by emailing childwelfare@rahenyunited.ie Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question so please never hesitate to get in touch.
Anne Cheevers - Child Welfare Officer
Rookies Roundup
The monthly update from our amazing Rookies academy!
We're delighted to have the Raheny Rookies back up and running. It promises to be a great year ahead with plenty to enjoy. Over the coming months, many of the children will take part in their very first matches which is always a special occasion. There's lots to look forward to as the season progresses. As ever, the success of the Rookies depends on the support of parents. Every bit of help makes a real difference and is always much appreciated. To get involved email officeadmin@rahenyunited.ie
"Behind the Boots"
We get to know some of the people that make our club great.... 💪⭐️
Introducing the amazing...⭐Hannah Byrne⭐️
What team do you play for and what position do you play?
U15s Girls, centre half.
Who's your football idol or who do you look up to?
Virgil Van Dijk
What's your favourite memory at the club so far?
Winning the league last season - me and the girls won 10 games in a row to bring it to a playoff. When the final whistle blew, the feeling of relief and happiness was unreal!
You're being sent to a desert island 🏝️ What three items would you bring and why?
I would bring bottles water to stay hydrated, a machete to hunt and build shelter and a football to pass the time.
This or That Hannah? 🤔
Left foot or right - right foot
Winning or playing well- playing well
Practice dribbling or practice passing- practice passing
Xbox or Playstation- Xbox
Summer or Winter- Summer
Halloween or Christmas- Christmas
Spice bag or 4 in 1- spice bag
Cats or dogs- cats
Sweey or savoury- savoury
Beach or pool- beach
Stepping into the spotlight this month for our coaches is......
⭐Barbara Wills⭐️
What's your role and how long have you been with the club?
I'm a coach with the U16 Girls and have been supporting this committed and talented group of girls since 2021.
What's your favourite memory at the club so far?
The team have had lots of standout victories over the years and it's great to see the excitement and joy after a win. However, for me, the best memories are in the little moments where we see the commitment and hard work from the girls pay off in confidence and passages of play or stylish little set-ups and assists during matches.
Any words of wisdom for the younger players?
Get out, get going, don't give up and have fun!
You're being sent to a desert island🏝️ What three items would you bring and why?
Runners, I'd be doing laps! Ice pack- you can never have enough ice packs and Spotify to keep the boredom at bay during the laps!
This or That Barbara? 🤔
Early kick off or late- early, life is short- fill it up!
VAR... fair or flawed- flaired, can I make that a thing? 😉
Extra time or penos- extra time
Winning or playing well- always playing well
Adventure or relaxation- adventure
Barry's or Lyons- Barry's
Spice bag or 4 in 1- 4 in 1
Cats or dogs- dogs
Sweet or savoury - savoury
Beach or pool - pool
Thanks Hannah & Barbara, it's been great getting to know you!
Interested in taking part or nominating someone for "Behind the Boots"? We'd love to hear from you... Email us on info@rahenyunited.ie
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Our sponsors are the backbone of our club. We extend a special thank you to Member First Credit Union for their ongoing support - we are delighted to welcome Member First back on board this year.
A massive THANK YOU to these incredible sponsors for kitting out some of our teams this season. Your support truly makes all the difference!
📣 Want to see your team featured?
We love sharing all the amazing updates from across the club. But we can only do that with your help! Every story in the newsletter or on socials comes directly from a coach submission. If you’d like your team to be included, or have anything to share at all, please ask your coach to get in touch:
✉️ For the newsletter: coach should email info@rahenyunited.ie
📸 For social media: coach should contact Laura directly.
We rely entirely on what’s sent in, so if something’s missing, it just means we didn’t hear about it. Thanks for helping us keep the whole club connected and celebrated. 🖤 🤍 ⚽ ⚠️
Our club is growing bigger and bigger - we need volunteers more than ever! If you want to support or volunteer with Raheny United in any capacity, get in touch. Your town, Your town,your club. Get involved!
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