Club Notes

Ballynahinch United completed their programme of preseason friendly matches when they entertained a Crusaders Select team at the Millbridge. United took the lead midway through the half when Stuart Hunter pounced on a loose ball to drill home. The home side had numerous opportunities with Matty Shaw, Gareth McMullan and Ethan Majury going close with headers.

In the second half both managers made wholesale changes and the visitors equalised. The game was well attended and the club had a barbecue going throughout the afternoon as a fund raiser. Many thanks to all those who assisted in anyway on the day.

One of the most pleasing aspects of the preseason friendly games has been the introduction of a number of the under 17 squad and what a breath of fresh air they have proved to be. The hard work that Ballynahinch Youth has put in over the years looks like there will be a steady stream of young players challenging for places in the adult teams.
Everyone at Ballynahinch Youth is to be congratulated on the excellent work that they are undertaking.

This Saturday, United commence their 2015/16 league programme with a local derby against Ballynahinch Olympic at home. The kick off is at 2pm and as a large crowd is expected supporters of both teams are encouraged to come early to avoid congestion on the road. There is adequate car parking at Millbridge. Admission will be £3 for adults and children under 16 are free.

The committee of BUFC would like to express their thanks to BEC Electrical for proving a new team strip once again. Also our thanks to CEF – City Electrical Factors for providing match sponsorship for last Saturdays match.

Anyone wishing to sponsor a match during the season should contact a committee member. We are very grateful to those individuals and businesses who have provided support so far this season it is really appreciated.

80s v 90s Night – Sat 15th Nov

Ballynahinch United in association with Ballynahinch Youth present 80s v 90s night (Blast from the past).

This Saturday the 15th November 2014 from 7.00pm till 1.30am in a marquee at the clubhouse at The Millbridge.

With DJ Phil Cool and special guest bands The Spice Girls & Madness!!!!

Delicious home made cooking from Roz will also be available to buy on the night.

Tickets are £10 and can be bought from any club member in advance or paid on the night.

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BEC Electrical Ltd renew their shirt sponsorship for the 1st team

The club would like to express its appreciation to BEC Electrical Ltd of Ballynahinch for their sponsorship of a new first team kit. Due to a clash of colours on Saturday United were unable to wear it however it is expected to make its debut tomorrow night (Tuesday 13th August) for the home league fixture against Sirocco Works.

Ross Hayes of BEC Electrical Ltd presents the new strip to the 1st team mangers Colin & Keith
Ross Hayes of BEC Electrical Ltd presents the new strip to the 1st team mangers Colin & Keith

The costs of running any sporting club is becoming an increasing burden on its members and Ballynahinch United like many other is feeling the pinch. Despite the income from members, supporters and players it can be difficult to cover the outlay required for a typical home match which with referees fees and the costs associated with kit wash etc. can amount to £100.The club would welcome MatchSponsorship or sponsorship to assist with the defraying of costs. Anyone interested in providing assistant should contact any club member or telephone the Secretary 07436112954 for further information.

Annual Dinner & Awards Night

Ballynahinch United held their annual dinner and awards nights in the Primrose Bar, Ballynahinch last Saturday night. There was an excellent attendance and everyone was welcomed by Club Treasurer Johnny McGreevy who performed the role of master of ceremonies superbly in place of the Club Chairman who was attending a family wedding.

In his remarks he thanked everyone for attending and thanked the staff of the Primrose Bar for the excellent meal and service on the night. He also offered the club’s best wishes to owner and former United player Ted McKibbin following his recent accident.

Commenting on the season which was almost at an end he praised the work of the club officials and committee, the commitment of the team managers and players throughout the year, the encouragement given by the clubs supporter’s week in week out and the financial support given by each and every one of the clubs sponsors.

The highlight of what has been a good season for the club overall was the first team reaching the 5th Round of the Irish Cup and being drawn against Premier League opposition in the form of Coleraine. Whilst the outcome was not by any means ideal the team had performed extremely well against a well drilled semi-professional side and the club had been able to take well over a hundred supporters with them to the game which was outstanding by any stretch of the imagination.

As always the awards were all closely contested throughout the season and the outcome was as follows:

Albion: Players Player and Top Scorer – Alan Massey, Managers Player – John McMenamin.

Swifts: Managers Player & Top Scorer – Aaron ‘Beattie’ McCaffrey, Players Player – Ethan Majury and Craig McMullan.

United: Managers Player – David Boal, Players Player – David Boal & Stuart McMullan.
Top Scorer – Johnny Hunter

Overall Club Top Scorer – Aaron ‘Beattie’ McCaffrey
Young Player of the Year – Aaron Cheevers
Supporter of the Year – Robert Creighton

The annual Golden Boot award went to David Boal who despite some strong competition throughout the year achieved it for his historic achievement of BUFCs first red card in the 5th round of the Irish Cup!

Club stalwart Jimmy Brown who was so disappointed to lose out yet again to Robert Creighton in the Supporter of the Year category scooped the Groundsman of the Year/Decade award. He was presented with an antique Ards F.C. shirt signed by the team that previously reached the top flight. Former United star Terry Luring came across it last year and Wilson ‘Chico’ Hamilton replaced the glass in the frame.