Champion Sports Chat

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 16

The intensive big match schedule is beginning to get to some of our pundits with a Messiah-like complex only the tip of the iceberg for Eoin and James. That worrying undercurrent still couldn’t take from the buzz of Clare’s National Camogie League Division 3B success, Newmarket Celtic’s latest Junior Cup feat and and anticipation of championship showdowns for the senior, U-20 and minor hurlers; senior and minor footballers and intermediate and minor ladies footballers over the next five days.

0:00-6:00 - Intro (Warning, contains puns)

6:00-8:45 - Kate O’Gorman interview after National Camogie League Division 3B Final success

8:45-26:10 - Munster Senior Hurling Championship Overview and previews of Clare v Tipperary (senior), Clare v Cork (minor) and Clare v Cork (U-20) with Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara

26:10-47:00 - Review of thrilling extra-time bout between holders Kerry and Clare in the Munster U-20 Football Semi-Final and previews of Clare’s Munster Senior and minor double against Limerick with Kieran Madigan and Derek Dormer

47:00-1.00:00 - Newmarket Celtic’s juggernaut keeps on moving as they edged out defending champions Fairview Rangers to advance to the Munster Junior Cup Final while things are hotting up in all four domestic leagues which we review with Dean Russell.

1.00:00-1.21:00 - Contrasting National Camogie and Ladies Football Final results are comprehensively discussed with Derek Dormer along with a big week for the minors in both codes.

1.21:00-1.33:00 - Busy week ahead of Munster action and fundraising for Clare LGFA are outlined by chairman Sean Lenihan

1.33:00-1.38:00 - Round Up of Rugby and Inter-County GAA fixtures

'She actually slaps her thigh a couple of times as if to say don’t let me down here leg’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 29 

A first ever All-ireland Camogie Final appearance for Clare’s second team who finally make their long-awaited breakthrough to the Premier Junior decider this Sunday against neighbours Tipperary (12.50pm). Eoin and James talk to players and management ahead of this landmark occasion.
Back in the Banner, it was a huge full opening weekend of senior, intermediate and Junior A hurling championship fare while there’s also a comprehensive preview of this weekend’s football equivalents.
The Masked Predictor hurling race also heats up while football representatives are sought for all 12 senior football clubs.

0:00-3:00 - Intro

3:00-14:35 - Clare Junior Camogie Captain Sinead O’Keeffe has helped her side to finally reach the promised land of Croke Park this Sunday. The Kilmaley native outlines Clare’s second string’s journey to get to this lofty stage against Tipperary in the All-Ireland Premier Junior Final.

14:35-21:40 - The Clare Tipperary rivalry is most felt at the Killaloe/Ballina border where Clare Junior Camogie Coach Brendan Foley is accustomed to the banter and buzz at the bridge that divides the counties. 

21:40-55:27 - The Clare Senior Hurling Championship got into full gear at the weekend, with the feats and consequences of each of the eight matches discussed in detail by analysts Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara.

55:27-1.03:42 - Derek Dormer weighs in on the winners and losers of the weekend's TUS Senior Hurling Championship action.

1.03:42-1.45:03 - All five Adult Football Championships commence over a busy August Bank Holiday weekend, with Kieran Madigan and Derek Dormer reuniting in studio to assess the chances of all 12 teams at senior level.

1.45:03-1.49:25 -  The Masked Predictor results from from the opening round of the Alternative Senior Hurling Championship and a search for representatives for the senior football equivalent are sought by Eoin and James.

1.49:25-1.55:45 - Kieran Madigan stays on to delve into the groups and main candidates for the TUS Intermediate Football Championship race which also throws-in this Saturday.

1.55:45- Round Up of Ireland’s Womens World Cup conclusion, this weekend’s major fixtures along with a new chapter for Ailish Considine and athletics and swimming news.

'Playing in Croke Park is a dream so now is the time to grasp it and experience it and enjoy it.'

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 30

This week, we look back at the heroics of the Clare Junior Camogie side who were crowned All-Ireland Champions in Croke Park on Sunday, while we look forward to the All-Ireland Intermediate Ladies' Football Final this coming Sunday. We also review Round 1 of the Senior Football Championship, and preview Round 2 of the Senior Hurling Championship. 

intro: 00.00.00 - 00.04.45;
Camogie Captain Sinéad O'Keeffe: 00.04.45 - 00.08.50;
Clare v Tipp Camogie Final Review: 00:08:50 - 00:17:10;
Ladies Football All Ireland Preview (featuring Wayne Freeman & Aisling Reidy): 00:17:10 - 00:51:36;
County Football 1st round review: 00:51:37 - 01:19:15;
Champion Chatter Football Predictions: 01:19:16 - 01:23:31;
County Hurling Championship 2nd round preview: 01:23:32 - 01:39:18;
Rugby news, Fixtures Round-Up and final wrap: 01:39:20 - 01:46:20.

'It's such a clichéd thing, but it is what you dream of...'

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 31

Intro: 00:00 - 04:30

Ladies Football review/club preview with Derek Dormer: 04:30 - 23:13

Camogie club championship (also with Derek): 23:14 - 30:27

Clare Hurling championship round 2 review with Ger O'Connell & Kevin McNamara: 30:28 - 1:07:25

Clare Football championship round 2 preview with Kieran Madigan: 1:07:26 - 1:28:08

Clare Soccer is back! Dean Russell joins us with all the news ahead of the new season: 1:07:27 - 1:38:10

Ennis/Kilrush Women's Rugby are back training & looking to recruit players to their team. Coach Gareth O'Hanlon joins us to tell us about the county wide 'Give it a Try' coaching camps & to look at Munster's first round win in the new Interprovincial Series that's just started: 1:38:11 - 1:49:53

Roundup from around the county including Rugby, Soccer & LGFA fixtures, the Clare players in the North American GAA Championship in Denver this weekend & more: 1:49:53 - 1:56:39

'We played the Ireland lads in a friendly & came back to Mount Callan to do a few hill runs!'

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 31

It’s now make-or-break in the county adult football and hurling championships as coveted places in the knock-out stages and dreaded spots in the relegation series are now honing inexorably into view. Eoin and James undertake an extension delve into both as a dramatic weekend of penultimate group stage football action is followed by the final round of three-quarters of the senior hurling groups.
The new adult soccer and ladies football campaigns also got underway at the weekend while we catch up on The Masked Predictor alternative senior championships in both football and hurling as big punditry reputations are put firmly on the line

0:00-4:40 - Intro;
4:40-39:07 - The well-travelled Kieran Madigan joins the lads to discuss a compelling weekend of adult football championship action that saw three teams secure their first victories and only Éire Óg and Kilmurry Ibrickane able to protect their perfect starts to this year's Jack Daly race albeit that the intermediate version is a little more clearcut after two rounds;
39:07-47:51 - The scores are in for The Masked Predictor updates as almost 30 club representatives from all over Clare go head-to-head for alternative County Senior Hurling and Football titles while Eoin and James also discuss the weekend’s ladies football openers; 
47:51-1.28:55 - A mouthwatering series of final round showdowns takes place in the Canon Hamilton race this weekend, with all eight senior classes comprehensively debated and discussed by analysts Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara;
1.28:55-1.42:57 - Dean Russell returns as the domestic soccer season commenced in limited fashion at the weekend. Fingers crossed the unpredictable weather won’t affect the next round of midweek league cups in all four divisions;
1.42:57- Round Up of the Women’s Premier Division, the county adult camogie championships, International hockey, Munster Rugby’s return to the Women’s Interprovincial Championship Final with a game to spare, an update on the Ennis/Kilrush Women’s Rugby ‘Give it a Try’ coaching camps as well as Friday’s ‘Midnight Mile’ in the West Clare Sports and Fitness Track in Cooraclare.

'Just in case your solicitor calls us, we wanted to make sure you knew this was being recorded’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 34

0:00-7:27 - Intro; 
7:27-29:58 - We get immediate reaction to the draws for the TUS Senior Hurling and Football Championship Quarter-Finals which took place on Monday evening as Derek Dormer joined Eoin and James in the studio; 
29:58-39:15 - The Boru Sports Masked Predictor alternative senior hurling and football championship draws are conducted live in studio as both competitions are down to the last eight;
39:15-1.11:40 - Fresh from the draws, the race for the Jack Daly Cup intensifies this weekend as the senior and intermediate quarter-finals take place along with the first relegation play-offs in both. Kieran Madigan joins Derek Dormer to pour over the familiar and not so familiar pairings;
1.11:40-1.27:48 - The first silverware of the new CDSL season were handed out on Friday evening after a grandstand finish from Shannon Olympic B saw them snatch the Third Division League Cup at the expense of newcomers Callan Utd. Dean Russell is on the line to preview the Second Division version along with upcoming Munster Junior Cup and Shield ties;
1.27:48- Round Up of the adult Ladies Football Championship knock-out stages that include the four county stars that were named on TG4’s Intermediate Team of the Year. Chloe Moloney and Laurie Ryan directly clash in the Women’s National Premier Division, this weekend’s camogie fixtures are also previewed while we catch up with the weekend activities for the Clare Cricket Club.

'There are three certainties in life: death, taxes and Kilmurry Ibrickane drawing Cratloe’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 35

0:00-6:27 - Intro;
6:27-40:56 - The Clare Senior and Intermediate Football Championship races are down to four, with the weekend’s quarter-final action and semi-final draws discussed in depth by analyst Kieran Madigan; 
40:56-42:05 - The Boru Sports Masked Predictor alternative Senior Football Championship Quarter-Finals equally proved dramatic, with the draw for hurling and football semi-finals taking place on next week’s pod;
42:05-1.03:09 - Knock-Out ties in Senior Football, Senior and Intermediate Ladies Football and Senior and Intermediate camogie are reviewed in the company of freelance reporter Derek Dormer who to eat a slice ion humble pie;
1.03:09-1.37:00 - The Canon Hamilton is destined for a new home in 2023 with this weekend’s quarter-finals in senior, intermediate and Junior A matched by two do-or-die senior relegation ties as Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara return to preview all the action;
1.37:00-1.46:25 - CDSL PRO Dean Russell joined Eoin and James to reflect on Donie Garrihy’s return as Clare’s Oscar Traynor Manager for the coming campaign while there was further success for Fairgreen Celtic and the start of the Munster and FAI Junior Cup competitions;
1.46:25-1.52:14 - Senior Ladies Football Quarter-Final bouts between Kilmurry Ibrickane and St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield along with West Clare Gaels’ victory over Fergus Rovers are outlined by Michael O’Connor;
1.52:14 - Round Up of the adult Ladies Football Championship knock-out stages that include three upcoming cup finals, Clare’s two Player-of-the-Year nominees in the All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Championship, Ailish Considine’s Kangaroo’s debut, Athlone Town’s penalty cup victory over Peamount United and the concluding stages of the County Under 14 Camogie Championships.

'I know now that he kicks with his right foot anyway if he manages to lose his hurley on Sunday'

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 38

0:00-8:24 - Intro;
8:24-32:40 - The way is now clear for hurling championship finals at senior, intermediate and Junior A following another dramatic weekend of action. Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara joined Eoin and James to assess the weekend’s fare as Crusheen and Clonlara both prevailed by eight, there were perfect intermediate revenge missions for Sixmilebridge and Corofin while Clooney-Quin and Broadford contest the Junior A version;
32:40-1.13.37 - The Jack Daly trophy is up for grabs this Sunday as Cratloe and St Breckan’s clash in a novel Senior Football Final. Kieran Madigan and latterly Derek ‘Lambs to the Slaughter’ Dormer previews senior, intermediate and minor deciders;
1.13:37-1.47:20 - Freelance Reporter Derek Dormer remained in studio to reflect on the hurling and camogie action at the weekend as well as looking forward to Saturday's senior ladies football final between Banner Ladies and West Clare Gaels;
1.47:20-1.58:14 - A sun-kissed Dean Russell joined Eoin and James remotely from Spain to look back on the weekend's Munster Junior Cup and League fare and peer ahead to the resumption of the FAI Junior Cup this Sunday;
1.58:14-2.29:57 - Three World Championship medals returned to the county in the past month as Dee Collins soared to unprecedented heights in Madeira for the World Mountain Running Championships, winning three medals over two gruelling events in just three days;
2.29:57- Round Up of GAA Fixtures and new seasons for Clarecastle Squash Club and Clarecastle Handball Club and local women’s soccer.

‘You'll see two of the best footballers in the country so go and watch this final'

“These are special times for our club and you’d hope that every club gets to experience days like this at some stage’


Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 40


0:00-5:09 - Intro;
5:09-32:42 - Eoin received an unprecedented reflection on Clonlara’s first senior hurling crown in 15 years as he and Kevin McNamara were joined by Clonlara selector Ger O’Connell live from the team celebrations in Stritch’s Pub, with some special guests joining in including manager Donal Madden and talisman John Conlon;
32:42-1.16:26 - Freelancer Derek Dormer joined Eoin and James to discuss the weekend’s action including hurling championship finals at senior, intermediate, Junior A and Junior C, Banner Ladies’ Munster Senior Club Ladies Football Championship bow against Mourneabbey and the ultimate camogie grudge match senior final rematch between Scariff-Ogonnelloe and Truagh-Clonlara;
1.16:26-1.20:23 - Another live first as fresh from the Senior B Hurling Final in Tubber, Inagh-Kilnamona’s Masked Predictor joined the lads to unveil this year’s Boru Sports Alternative Senior Hurling Champion;
1.20:23-1.34:28 - It’s a big week for Dean Russell who not only looked back on a busy weekend of domestic action that saw Sporting Ennistymon picked up the First Division League Cup crown but also as Clare Youths Manager, the Shannon native is embarking on a Munster Inter-League campaign, starting this Thursday against neighbours Limerick in Jackman Park (7pm);
1.34:28-1.58:56 - It’s fitting that another Clonlara native was on the pod this week as former Ireland Rugby International Marcus Horan was on the line to discuss Munster’s winning start to their URC title defence, the World Cup Final and of course Clon’s senior hurling heroics;
1.58:56- Round Up of domestic rugby, GAA and camogie fixtures along with athletics feats for Dean Casey and Neasa Ní Ainiféin.

'These are special times and you’d hope every club gets to experience days like this’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 42

0:00-5:18 - Intro;
5:18-24:53 - A truly memorable season for Chloe Moloney finishes this Saturday when Peamount United collect the Women’s National League cup, coming only days after being honoured on the Intermediate Ladies Football Team of the Year. The West Clare star speaks with Eoin and James on Peamount, Clare and the prospect of Champions League football in 2024;
24:53-34:26 - Ahead of Banner Ladies latest Munster Senior A Final showdown with chief rivals Ballymacarbry, Eoin and James speak with one of the perennial Waterford champions’ most decorated players Michelle Ryan on their new-look side and their familiarity with the Clare champions over the past twelve years;
34:26-55:51 - Corofin and Banner’s Munster hurling triumph’s are reviewed with regular guest Derek Dormer who also looked ahead to major provincial showdowns for Banner Ladies and Truagh-Clonlara this weekend;
55:51-1.15:27 - Football analyst Kieran Madigan returns, fresh from watching the Cork Senior and Intermediate Football deciders, to preview Cratloe and Kilmihil’s trips to the Rebel County this Sunday;
1.15:27-1.34:59 - Avenue United are the sole Clare side remaining in the FAI Junior Cup after dethroning champions Newmarket Celtic. The Clare Youths, the Munster Junior Cup and a full schedule of league action are also on the agenda as CDSL PRO Dean Russell joined the lads;
1.41:14- Round Up of U-21 Hurling and Football Championships, Coach Education courses, domestic rugby and Post-Primary hurling Championships including Friday’s Dean Ryan Cup Final for St Flannan’s College.

“All luck is equal but some luck is more equal than others’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 43

0:00-5:28 - Intro;
5:28-22:53 - A historic week for Laurie Ryan didn’t start according to plan as Banner Ladies were defeated in Sunday’s Munster Senior Club Final by Ballymacarbry. However, the Ennis native is hoping to bounce back and lead Athlone Town to a FAI Women’s Cup crown this Sunday when taking on holders Shelbourne in the Tallaght Stadium (3pm);
22:53-38:23 - A less than Super Sunday for Clare football in Cork saw Cratloe and Kilmihil exit their respective Munster Championships, with Kieran Madigan assessing both performances along with previewing Killimer’s first foray into provincial action this Saturday;
38:23-1.00:55 - Miunster Finals for three hurling representatives are tantalisingly on offer this weekend when Clonlara, Corofin and Banner take on derby semi-final showdowns against Kiladangan, Dromin-Athlacca and Feenagh/Kilmeedy respectively. Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara look ahead to what could be a memorable weekend;
1.00:55-1.15:08 - Eoin and James are joined on the line by Clare Youths Manager and CDSL PRO Dean Russell who reflected on a disappointing home reverse for Clare’s Youth side while looking forward to a must-win Oscar Traynor tie against Kerry this Sunday. A perfect Munster weekend allied to plenty of drama in all four domestic divisions capped off another hectic week for Clare Soccer;
1.15:08 -1.39:22 - Freelance Reporter Derek Dormer went back to school to learn how to pronounce ‘Drom In Ath Lacca’ ahead of a busy weekend of provincial fare for Clonlara, Corofin, Banner and St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield as well as the U-21A, B and C Hurling Semi-Finals while also analysing Truagh-Clonlara and Banner Ladies Munster Senior Championship defeats;
1.39:22- Round Up of Handball news, U-16 Camogie Finals, Under 21 Hurling Semi-Final fixtures and a catch-up of rugby results and fixtures.

'I’m confident that Corofin can beat Atletico Madrid'

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 44

0:00-5:21 - Intro

5:21-33:14 - Clonlara and Corofin edged through to first ever Munster Club Hurling Finals, with Clon coach Ger O’Connell on the line alongside analyst Kevin McNamara to look over a Super Sunday of club action for the Banner County.

33:14-1.02:36 - Clare Handball Chairman Tommy Hegarty and one of Clare’s top players Sean Coughlan joined Eoin and James in studio to preview the Irish Nationals being hosted in Clare this weekend for the very first time.

1.02:36-1.13:03 - Killimer’s unprecedented season continues as they defied the odds and conditions to hold off Waterford champions Affane and now host Listowel Emmets in the Semi-Final of the Munster Junior Club Football Championship. Kieran Madigan assesses Killimer’s hopes and also catches up with the concluding stages of the Under 21 Football Championships.

1.13:03-1.37:47 - English Grammar expert Derek Dormer called in to look back on the Munster exploits of St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield, Corofin, Clonlara, Banner and Killimer as well as national awards for three hurlers and one that should have been for Fidelma Marrinan.

1.37:47-1.48:27 - Clare’s exit from the Oscar Tarynor trophy, a catch up of all four domestic divisions and the prospect of exciting away FAI (Avenue) and Munster (Newmarket) Junior Cup ties for the big two are on the agenda for CDSL PRO Dean Russell.

1.48:27 - Round Up of Ogonnelloe Hurling Club’s Race Night, Under 21 Hurling Finals, Rugby Fixtures and Athletics success for the county.

‘We pride ourselves in being one of the strongest counties, so hopefully we can showcase that’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 45 

0:00-5:40 - Intro
5:40-32:03 - Clonlara and Corofin’s Munster Club Hurling Final prospects are weighed up in the company of analyst Kevin McNamara and Ballyea’s Munster Senior Club winning manager Robbie Hogan who also faced Ballygunner in last year’s provincial decider.
32:03-55.53 - St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield’s remarkable Munster Junior Club Camogie triumph and Under 21 titles for Scariff-Ogonnelloe, Newmarket-on-Fergus and Broadford are assessed by freelance reporter Derek Dormer who also looked ahead to this weekend’s major provincial showdowns.
55:53-1.10:30 - Clare’s first ever hosting of the Irish Nationals in handball proved an unbridled success as the spotlight was placed upon the Banner County and 30 Clare players competed for prestigious honours. Clare Handball’s Orla Considine was on the line to reflect on a memorable weekend.
1.10:30-1.20:20 - Football analyst Kieran Madigan looked back on a busy weekend that saw Killimer’s Munster dream shattered on Saturday. There’s still silverware to play for as North Clare duo Ennistymon and St Breckan’s progressed to the Under 21A Football decider while this weekend sees the B version between Clarecastle and Western Gaels.
1.20:20-1.35:20 - CDSL PRO Dean Russell debated the wafer thin margins between success and defeat as Avenue United edged into the last 32 in the FAI Junior Cup whereas Newmarket Celtic bowed out of the Munster Junior Cup. Their league showdown and a full list of domestic fixtures are discussed in all four divisions.
1.35:20 - Round Up of FAI Awards, Under 21 Hurling Finals, Rugby Fixtures and Athletics news.

’The league without him would be like Christmas without Santa’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 46

0:00-5:20 - Intro5:20-27:46 - Munster Final despair for both Clonlara and Corofin is central to the discussion as Eoin and James are joined by regular analysts Ger O’Connell and Kevin McNamara to pour over the weekend’s hurling action and look ahead to 2024;
27:46-58.34 -St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield’s All-Ireland Junior Club Camogie Semi-Final exit, Corofin’s Munster Intermediate Hurling Final reverse, Feakle/Killanena’s U-21A hurling triumph and a new Clare Cup Soccer Prediction Competition sponsored by Donovan Sports are all topics for discussion with freelance reporter Derek Dormer;
58:34-1.27:12 - An unprecedented weekend for Ennis Track is imminent as four Clare athletes (Dean Casey, Kevin Mulcaire, Oisin Spillane and Niall Murphy) represent Ireland in the European Cross Country Championships in Brussels. Ennis Track Chairman Rory Chesser and the afoenemtuonded Niall Murphy join the lads in studio to look ahead to this much anticipated event;
1.27:12-1.40:41 - A major weekend of Munster action awaits for four Clare soccer clubs as Newmarket Celtic, Avenue United, Fair Green Celtic and Manus Celtic are in knock-out action in three separate competitions. CDSL PRO Dean Russell takes a break from his Santa deliveries to preview those ties along with reflecting on a dramatic weekend of domestic action;
1.40:41-1.52:14 - U-21A and B Football Finals along with the Under 16 equivalents are on the agenda as football analyst Kieran Madigan looked back on Clarecastle’s minimum victory over Western Gaels while the Kings of the North bragging rights are back up for grabs in the U-21A decider between Ennistymon and St Breckan's;
1.52:14 - Round Up of National Cross Country Novices/Underage Championships in Navan, U-21A Football Final and Rugby Fixtures/Results.

'We did constant circuits and listened to Rocky music but it’s a much more measured approach now’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 48

0:00-5:01 – Intro; 
5:01-30:19 - Recently retired Clare inter-county duo and former classmates Podge Collins and Chloe Morey joined Eoin and Eimear to reflect on their careers, the impact of the GPA, their decisions to step away from inter-county and inevitably their futures outside of club level; 
30:19-38:50 - Avenue United are top of the Premier Division Christmas tree, but they are not alone in looking eagerly towards 2024 as Dean Russell outlined when assessing all four domestic divisions while also peering ahead to the new alternative Clare Cup masked predictor competition; 
38:50-46:47 - Kieran Madigan inevitably attended the last football tie of the year as Cooraclare overcame neighbours Kilmurry Ibrickane in the U-16 Division 2 Championship decider;
46:47-1.03:32 - Eimear flipped the script on freelance reporter Derek Dormer as the interviewee turned interviewer to discuss the local media landscape and learning from overseas about how to attract more supporters to camogie and ladies football ties; 
1.03:32-1.22:46 - What to do when the TV’s being hogged by your relations, Eoin and James try to recommend some sporting documentaries on domestic players and streaming services; 
1.48:18 - Round Up of the Clare U-15 PPS Hurling Finals, Eoghan Gunning’s Munster Award, the 2024 Club Clare Membership Launch and Rugby Fixtures and Results.

‘If this musical is successful, it’ll be Hollywood next’

Champion Chatter - Season 02 Episode 49

The first of a two part Christmas/New Year’s Special as Eoin and James look back on a momentous 2023. First up is a true test of local sporting knowledge as the hosts take on defending champions Derek Dormer and Kieran Madigan in a near 50 question wrestle for supremacy that fittingly goes right down to the very last answer.
Part 2’s review of 2023 and a sneak peak of what’s to come in 2024 will be released next Tuesday, January 2.

'He snatched it Aine O’Loughlin-like with the last puck of the quiz'

Champion Chatter – Season 03 Episode 04 is now available on Spotify, SoundCloud, Apple and Amazon Podcasts.

0:00-7:16 - Intro; 7:16-24:40 - A new era for the Clare Senior Footballers commences on Sunday when hosting Sligo in the opening round of Division 3 of the National League. New manager Mark Fitzgerald joins Eoin and James to assess their prospects and his plans for 2024; 24:40-39:22 - Having forensically studied Sligo, football analyst Kieran Madigan provides a great overview of the Banner’s new surroundings in the National Football League along with ear-marking who are the teams to watch in the race for promotion to Division 2; 39:22-53:37- Storm Isha put paid to the majority of soccer league action but there were two major survivors as Avenue United unfortunately bowed out of the FAI Junior Cup while closer to home holders Newmarket Celtic continued their catch-up in the Premier Division with a derby victory over Shannon Town. CDSL PRO Dean Russell was on the line to look over those ties and peer ahead to a hopefully calmer weekend of weather;
53:37-1.04:22 - 200 athletes of all ages and abilities braved the stormy conditions on Sunday in Lee’s Road to commence the latest Run the Banner series. Eoin and James were joined by Victor Fleming-O’Loughlin to look ahead to the three remaining races in Kilnaboy (6km), Quilty (8km) and Lee’s Road (10km) in as many months and encourage more budding runners to take part;
1.04:22-1.16:40- A hectic schedule of Handball both domestically and nationally mandated Orla Considine to come into the studio and outline all the Juvenile Finals results and adult leagues along with some exciting provincial and national tournaments over the coming weeks; 1.16:40 - An impressive first National League outing for the Clare Ladies Footballers in Wexford, a dramatic finish to Ardscoil Ris’ latest Harty Cup Semi-Final success, Scariff Community College’s unfortunate exit from the Munster Senior B PPS Hurling Championship, St Flannan’s College’s Munster Junior Camogie Final, heartbreak for Naomi Carroll’s Irish Women’s Hockey team in their Olympic qualification hopes, a new start for Imogen Cotter, Munster and local rugby news/fixtures and semi-final finishes for the Clare Men’sand Women’s sides in the West of Ireland Darts Challenge are all on the agenda in a busy finale to this week’s show.

‘If you were going to build two humans, you wouldn’t build them like this’

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 07

0:00-5:13 – Intro;
5:13-13:18 - The wait is over as the Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup commences in dramatic fashion as 18 club representatives are halved to just nine. Will our podcast regulars Dean Russell and Derek Dormer be amongst the survivors?;
13:18-30:50 - CDSL PRO Dean Russell remained on the line to reflect on the actual results of Round 1 & 2 of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup, big victories outside of the county for Avenue United and Bridge United along with all the domestic league fare;
30:50-1.01:07 - Freelance Reporter Derek Dormer returns from the green room to look back on the Clare Senior Hurlers second victory of the National League in Waterford. The Clare ladies footballers’ also remain unbeaten after salvaging a draw with Roscommon while it’s the turn of the flagship camogie side to finally get their league underway against Galway this Sunday;
1.01:07-1.13:30 - we keep the Faith-ful as Kieran Madigan joins Eoin and James to preview the Clare Senior Footballers trip to Offaly this Sunday in what could be a pivotal turning point of Division 3;
1.13:30-1.48:32 - Former Ballyea and Clare star Tony Griffin speaks with James about his upcoming prestigious guest appearance on Laochra Gael and his playing career for St Flannan’s, Ballyea and Clare;
1.48:32 - Round up of all the latest Handball action, the opening round of the Munster Under 16 and Minor Ladies Football Championships, Clare players’ success in the All-Ireland Third Level Camogie Championships and Rugby results and fixtures.

'Let me home to bed as I’m going crawling under the duvet for a week’

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 08

0:00-5:00 - Intro;
5:00-21:02 - The grandstandiest of grandstand finishes was saved for a dramatic Sunday in Tullamore as the senior footballers snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against hosts Offaly, a great escape witnessed by Kieran Madigan who is still recovering;
21:02-40:14 - CDSL PRO Dean Russell joined Eoin and James to get an update on this week’s Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup, the actual Clare Cup drama, domestic league action and two major penultimate stage provincial clashes for Avenue United and Manus Celtic;
40:14-1.09:21 - Clare’s flagship ladies football and camogie sides were in action in Cusack Park over the weekend, matches watched by freelance Reporter Derek Dormer who assessed the contrasting results along with the intermediate camogie’s sides derby with Galway, a return to National League action for the senior hurlers while the Fitzgibbon Cup Final and Croke Cup Quarter-Final are also on the agenda;
1.09:21-1.34:08 - The third fastest man in Ireland Gabriel Kehinde admirably hobbled in on crutches to chat about the weekend’s National Indoor Finals, his injury and future along with a reflecting on his meteoric career to date;
1.34:08 - Round up of St Joseph’s Spanish Point’s All-Ireland Basketball Final heartbreak, Rugby and Handball results and fixtures, Clare’s Inter-County Darts Championship performance and Wednesday Munster 15A PPS Hurling Semi-Final between Ardscoil Ris and St Flannan’s.

'Probably wise to consult your cardiologist before going to Cusack Park to watch the footballers’

Champion Chatter - Season 03  Episode 09   

0:00-5:54 - Intro

5:54-14:05 - The eagerly awaited Round 3 draw for the Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup is performed live in studio albeit begrudgingly by Derek Dormer having been knocked out in the opening round.

14:05-42:11 - Freelance Reporter Derek Dormer remained in studio to converse about Clare’s National League double trip to Leinster at the weekend as the hurlers preserved their unbeaten start to the top tier whereas the senior camogie side are yet to get off the mark. Ardscoil Ris’ Croke Cup Semi-Final against St Kieran’s and the flagship ladies footballers long trip to Louth are also up for discussion.

42:11-58:55 - the Clare footballers most commanding Division 3 outing to date is central to this week’s chat with football analyst Kieran Madigan who delves beneath the bonnet of Clare’s 13 point victory over Wicklow as well as peering ahead to Saturday’s Shannonside derby.

58:55-1.17:05 - Agonising Munster Junior Semi-Final exits for Avenue United and Manus Celtic are only solaced by Bridge United’s underage charge at Youths and Under 17’s. CDSL PRO Dean Russell looks over a limited weekend of action due to the inclement weather while also assessing this weekend’s domestic league fixtures.

1.17:05-1.24:52 - 20 Munster Juvenile Handball medals remain in the county including a whopping 17 golds after a hugely successful weekend in Clarecastle and Newmarket. Orla Considine is on the line to celebrate this feat and look forward to All-ireland Semi-Finals for eleven juveniles in Ulster as well as senior doubles in Croke Park.

1.24:52 - Round up of the perfect season for The Aylmer’s who completed an Ennis Town Darts League and Cup double on Sunday while Steeles secured the B crown, Club and Schools Rugby results and fixtures. GAA fixtures and a major haul of Munster Juvenile Indoor podium finishes for Ennis Track are all outlined.

'Some week I’m going to arrive with a wooden spoon and as soon as you open your mouth, bang!’

0:00-6:13 - Intro;
6:13-39:49 - A hugely successful weekend of National League action is reviewed by regular pundit Derek Dormer as the flagship hurlers advanced to a Division 1 Semi-Final showdown with neighbours Tipperary in Portlaoise this Sunday while the ladies footballers kicked a whopping ten goals to book their spot in the Division 3 decider. The Womens’ Clare Cup Semi-Final and the start of the adult football leagues are also up for discussion;
39:49-1.00:14 - There was double success for the male footballers as the senior side kept up their National League Division 3 promotion push with a merited victory over Antrim while the Under 20’s got their Munster Championship campaign off to a winning start in Waterford. Football analyst Kieran Madigan assesses both ties along with the weekend’s Cusack and Garry Cup openers;
1.00:14-1.11:50 - More silverware via another gritty penalty shoot-out for Newmarket Celtic who completed a remarkable week with the first domestic trophy of the season against arch-rivals Avenue United on Friday night. CDSL PRO Dean Russell joins Eoin and James to praise Paddy Purcell’s side’s latest achievement as well as look forward to the return of the Clare Cup and league action in all four divisions;
1.11:50-1.27:28 - Following last weekend’s Six Nations Championship win for the Irish rugby team, their female equivalents begin their campaign away to France this Saturday. Former international Eimear Considine is on the line to discuss both championships as her fellow Kilmihil native Edel McMahon leads out her country over the next six weeks;
1.27:28-1.34:12 There are five new All-Ireland Juvenile Handball champions  in the county after Clare’s representatives won three titles and two silver in Croke Park on Saturday. Secretary Orla Considine joined the lads to celebrate those achievements and update the pod on all the handball action inside and outside of the county;
1.34:12 - Round up of athletics action including best wishes to Emma Haugh who represents St Flannan’s College and Ireland in the European Post-Primary Cross Country Championships this weekend. The senior camogie side’s return, and minor ladies football and camogie action are updated along with all the latest rugby results and fixtures.

‘Call me old fashioned but I’m concerned about you barging bare-chested into Portlaoise’

Champion Chatter – Season 03 Episode 13

Intro: 00:00:01;
Derek Dormer joins to first look at Clare Football v Down (00:09:12);
Then we talk about the Clare hurlers continued unbeaten run with their league semi-final win over Tipperary (00:17:35);
The Clare LGFA team suffered their first loss of the season in Down but they still have a league final to come (00:34:46);
Clare Camogie have had a tough season so far, but there are green shoots visible ahead of the championship (00:36:23);
Dean Russell joins to talk through soccer news in the county including some important Clare Cup results (00:45:29);
Kieran Madigan breaks down the Clare footballers season so far & talks us through how the Clare U20s have performed in their first few rounds of the championship (01:02:10);
We finish the show with a round up of rugby, handball, hockey & fixtures news (01:25:51).

'I really don't want to be part of this pun section; just keep that between yourselves'

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 14

0:00-6:25 - Intro; 
6:25-31:18 - A much-anticipated Super Saturday culminates with the Clare hurlers taking on Kilkenny in the Division 1 National League decider. Analysts Ger O'Connell and Kevin McNamara return to preview the game and its significance ahead of the upcoming Munster Senior Championship a fortnight later;
31:18-1.00:38 - The flagship ladies footballers bid to finally get their hands on the Division 3 National League crown when taking on Roscommon in Birr on Saturday. Freelance Reporter Derek Dormer was in studio to preview that tie and reflect on their camogie counterparts final Division 1A outing as well as the David v Goliath Clare Cup clash of Newmarket Celtic and Callan United;
1.00:38-1.06:42 - Eoin and James reveal the results of Round 3 of the Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup along with conducting the Quarter-Final draw. The real Clare Cup last eight ties and busy weeks for Kilkishen Celtic, Bridge United and Newmarket Celtic are also discussed;
1.06:42-1.16:49 - Buoyant Ennis/Kilrush Ladies Coach Gareth O'Hanlon celebrates his side's meteoric rise to garnering the Munster Division 1 League title in only their first year while a provincial Division 1 cup decider along with an All-Ireland Semi-Final with Tullow in Ennis this Saturday are eagerly anticipated;
1.16:49-1.36:54 - Clare football received a major jolt on Saturday when the U-20's advanced to the last four in Munster. Football analyst Kieran Madigan outlined that result's significance, the latest results in the Cusack and Garry Cups along with looking forward to the start of the Munster Minor Championship;
1.36:54 - Round up of Clare's involvement in the Women's National Premier Division, more success for Ennis ladies' U-18.5 rugby side, a week of opening ties in the Munster Minor football and hurling and U-20 hurling Championships and athletics news.

‘Cut out the nonsense, of course they will be going all out to win a National League title'

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 15

0:00-3:42 - Intro;
3:42-34:00 - A Superb Saturday garnered a historic National League double for the county’s flagship hurlers and ladies footballers, with freelance reporter Derek Dormer reflecting on both triumphs that tees both up perfectly for the commencement of their respective championship campaigns;
34:00-50:46 - Clare Ladies Football Manager Wayne Freeman joined Eoin and James to look back on his side’s first national silverware in 13 years following a gritty Division 3 Final victory over Roscommon;
50:46-1.01:14 - Clare excelled on the field at the weekend but in a unique perspective, TG4’s Head of Sport Ronan Coisdealbha provided the behind the scenes landscape of live televised sport, with the recent National Hurling League Semi-Final between Clare and Tipperary attracting 30% of the market share;
1.01:14-1.21:50 - A major week for Clare football sees the minor and Under 20 sides facing major showdowns with Limerick and Kerry. Football analyst Kieran Madigan previews both ties along with reflecting on Waterford’s surprise senior win over Tipperary to tee up a home Munster Semi with the Banner;
1.21:50-1.40:53 - Knocked unceremoniously out of the Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup, CDSL PRO Dean Russell recovered enough to look back on three of the actual Clare Cup Quarter-Finals while the introduction of midweek action has also heated up the league fare;
1.49:53 - Round up of the latest handball news, an exit for the Minor Camogie side, a refixture for the Celtic Challenge side and Ennis/Kilrush’s narrow All-Ireland Semi-Final rugby reverse to Tullow.

‘Well I hope you’re not going to throw a pig’s head on the field’

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 16

0:00-2:16 - Intro
2:16-29:25 - Clare's Munster Senior Championship bows in both hurling and football take place this weekend, with Mark Fitzgerald's footballers up first against Waterford in Dungarvan on Saturday evening for a place in the Munster Final. Kieran Madigan assesses Clare's chances and also looks forward to minor and Under 20 showdowns against Tipperary.
29:25-52:41 - Like a child at Christmas, Derek Dormer bounced into studio in anticipation of a pivotal weekend of Munster Senior Championship action. The freelance reporter also reflected on Clare's first defeat in the Under 20 hurling championship against Cork last Friday.
52:41-1.24:57 - The biggest hurling rivalry in the country takes centre stage this Sunday when neighbours Clare and Limerick lock horns once more, this time in a spectacular opening to the Munster Senior Championship in Cusack Park. Hurling analysts Kevin McNamara and Ger O'Connell preview the upcoming senior and minor Shannonside derbies.
1.24:57-1.29:38 - Derek Dormer returns to help conduct the draw for the semi-finals of the Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup, with the winning team receiving a set of half-zip tops for their team.
1.29:38-1.41:54 - The way is now clear for the last four of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup, with CDSL PRO Dean Russell on the line to reflect on Fern Celtic's semi-final breakthrough and title twists in the Premier, First and Third Divisions.
1.41:54 - An up[date of the Women's League of Ireland including a post-match interview with Athlone Town Captain Laurie Ryan; Munster success for Clare's Under 16 Ladies Footballers as well as a second final to come; All-Ireland Singles handball news and the latest rugby news and fixtures.

‘I think it's time to take one of your special biscuits to calm you down before the weekend’

Champion Chatter- Season 03 Episode 16 

0:00-6:47 - Intro;  
6:47-35:22 - An anti-climactic feel to the start of the Munster Senior Hurling Championship after Limerick ransacked Cusack Park with a remarkable 12 point final quarter surge. Kevin McNamara and Ger O'Connell pick through the bones of that opening round blip and also peer ahead to a make-or-break clash away to Cork this Sunday;
35:22-59:11 - The weekend certainly started in spectacular fashion when Mark Fitzgerald's senior footballers put hosts Waterford to the sword by 14 points to reach a second successive Munster Senior decider against Kerry. Football Analyst Kieran Madigan assessed the Banner's latest feat along with reflecting on the fortunes or lack of of the U-20's and Minors against Tipperary in the past week;
59:11-1.16:17 - Between them, Premier Division title rivals Avenue United and Newmarket Celtic chalked up 15 goals on Sunday as their race looks to be going right down to the wire. CDSL PRO Dean Russell joins Eoin and James to sift through the almost nightly soccer schedule in all four divisions along with reflecting on the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup Semi-Final draw;
1.16:17 - Seven Clare natives are bidding for AIL rugby glory for UL Bohs; there were Munster Under 16 Finals defeats in camogie and ladies football; an upcoming Munster Minor B Ladies Football decider against Tipperary this Sunday along with Clare's Munster Senior Camogie Championship bow against Cork as part of the hurlers double header in Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh this Sunday.

‘When we got the first goal, we needed someone to run onto the field to delay things’

Champion Chatter- Season 03 Episode 17 

0:00-7:21 - Intro;
7:21-42:01 - Cusack Park is set to host its first ever Munster Senior Football Final this Sunday when Clare and perennial superpowers Kerry lock horns for the 15th time in a decider. Football analyst Kieran Madigan and former Clare manager and Kerry All-Ireland winning player John Kennedy preview what will be a unique Super Sunday in Ennis;
42:01-1.10:15 - The Clare hurlers are back on track following a gritty opening Munster Championship victory over Cork on away soil last Sunday. Hurling analysts Ger O'Connell and Kevin McNamara reflect on another rollercoaster ride that included six shared second half goals;
1.10:15-1.14:28 - Back-to-back League crowns and promotions for Fear Green Celtic, this weekend's Clare Cup Semi-Finals, the Under 17 Cup Final and the concluding stages of the three other league divisions are all part of this week's soccer round-up;
1.14:28-1.28:10 - Rugby star and pundit Eimear Considine joined Eoin and James on the line to discuss a memorable weekend that saw seven Clare natives secured a first AIL rugby title for UL Bohs in six years while Kilmihil native Edel McMahon steered Ireland to a famous Six Nations victory over Scotland that cemented their World Cup place;
1.28:10 - A welcome confidence boost amidst defeat for Clare in the Munster Senior Camogie Championship; another major Handball haul in Munster; Provincial Minor B LGFA success for Clare: Munster minor silverware on the line for their male equivalents along with the latest hurling defence for Brian O'Connell side and a national hockey final showdown for Catholic Institute for Naomi Carroll, Laura Foley and Roisin Begley are all part of this week's extended conclusion.

'If I was in charge I'd be moving in the sidelines in Cusack Park anyway'

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 18

0:00-9:24 - Intro; 
9:24-40:50 - The occasion was historic even if the result didn't follow as a plucky Clare pushed Kerry all the way in their Munster Senior Football Championship Final rematch in Cusack Park on Sunday. Football analyst Kieran Madigan looked back on the Banner's seven point reverse as well as the minors Phase 1 Final victory to tee up a semi-final showdown with Cork;
40:50-1.01:07 - Newmarket Celtic and Avenue United face two title deciders in the Premier League and Clare Cup over the next few weeks after prevailing over Fern Celtic and Bridge United respectively at the weekend. There's also massive conclusions in the First and Third Divisions according to CDSL PRO Dean Russell;
1.01:07 - A comprehensive final stanza included an update on the Women's Premier Division; an early set-back for Clare's Under 16 Camogie side while the hand of opportunity is presented to the minor hurlers and footballers and Under 20 hurlers in another hectic week. Ennis golfer Aine Donegan qualified for a historic second successive US Open; Imogen Cotter retired from professional cycling; Catholic Institute had an agonising late reverse to Railway Union in their national decider while Ennis Rugby's Mens and Womens sides continue their unprecedented successes.

'It will be another cracker to look forward to and hopefully i'll be allowed outside for that one'

0:00-9:15 - Intro;

9:15-26:02: - All four CDSL titles were decided over the past week, with PRO Dean Russell joining Eoin and James to reflect on Avenue United's Premier Division reclamation; a return to First Division glory for Newmarket Celtic B and Shannon Olympic B's dramatic Third Division showdown steal;

26:02-58:56 - A momentous season on the field followed an equally jubilant year off it for Ennis Rugby Club's centenary celebrations in 2023. In recent weeks, the men's side completed their return to Munster Junior League Division 2 after a flawless Division 3 campaign while in their inaugural season in the top flight in Munster, the womens' side captured a league and cup double. Players Emily Anglim, Nell Walsh, Joe Connaughton and Head of Girls and Women's Rugby Lorchan Hoyne came into the studio to reflect on those series of highs;

58:56-1.22:50 - Their provincial campaign may have ended but the Clare footballers first taste of All-Ireland Senior Championship action commences on home soil this Saturday evening when hosting Cork in Cusack Park at 6pm. Football Analyst Kieran Madigan looks ahead to that tie along with weighing up the minors Munster Semi-Final exit to the same opposition;

1.22:50-1.30:16 - James caught up with new GAA President Jarlath Burns this week at the Super 9's Hurling Competition in Gort to discuss his tenure so far, his hopes for the summer and the admirable work of the Future Leaders project that saw the TY Students of Gort Community School organise and promote this annual event;

1.30:16 - Another Cork showdown for the Clare U-20 hurlers who hosts the Rebels in Cusack Park on Friday evening (6.45pm) for a place in the final against Tipperary; there were disappointments for the Celtic Challenge hurling side and Under 16 Camogie squad in their championship defeats. We wish our Clare athletes all the best in this weekend's Munster track and field championships and welcome back Chloe Moloney to action following injury as she lined out for Peamount United as well as looking at Munster Rugby and the Clare Feile Football Finals.

'We have to hand on this sporting faith to the next generation'

Champion Chatter - Season 03 Episode 20

Please note this was recorded before Monday's Munster Minor Hurling Final

0:00-9:30 - Intro

9:30-35:32 - A major weekend for the senior, Under 20 and minor hurlers in their respective Munster Championships is discussed with Ger O'Connell.

35:32-49:28 - A strong Cork finish denied Clare's flagship footballers of a positive stat to the All-Ireland Senior Championship, with Mark Fitzgerald's side now facing a must win tie against Tyrone according to Kieran Madigan.

49:28-1.05:44 - It's Avenue United versus Newmarket Celtic in a fourth different competition as the Clare soccer season finishes with the ultimate Clare Cup showdown between the county's kingpins. Dean Russell also outlines the runners and riders in the league promotion and relegation races.

1.05:44-1.21:10 - Dual stars Laura Foley and Roisin Begley join Eoin and James to review their hockey season with Catholic Institute along with looking ahead to their All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship campaign with Clare that starts this Saturday at home to Down in Cusack Park (2pm)

1.21:10 - Round Up of the Run the Banner Summer series: Aine Donegan's US Open build-up; Clare Under 16 Camogie squad's latest away day; A dramatic Division 1 LGFA League victory for Kilmurry Ibrickane; Update on Clare's involvement in women's national soccer and Munster Rugby still on track for top spot in the URC.

‘Is it all about enjoying hitting people with sticks?’

0:00-9:22 - Intro;
9:22-44:54 - Clare's progression to a third consecutive Munster Senior Hurling Final against Limerick is analysed with Ger O'Connell and Kevin McNamara who looked back on another heart stopping finale, this time against Tipperary along with peering ahead to the club championship draws that were made last week;
44:54-1.00:31 - Avenue United are the double league and Clare Cup champions for the second time in three years following a tense titanic final showdown with arch-rivals Newmarket Celtic that was only decided on penalties on Saturday. CDSL PRO Dean Russell joined the lads to reflect on that historic achievement, the season as a whole and the crowning of the inaugural Donovan Sports Alternative Clare Cup champion;
1.00:31-1.35:09 - Mark Fitzgerald's senior footballers need to bounce back against Tyrone in Omagh this Sunday in what is a make-or-break tie for both in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship. Kieran Madigan sizes up that task along with giving his initial thoughts on the senior, intermediate and Junior A Championship draws;
1.35:09- The long goodbye for Eoin and James commences with previews of the flagship ladies football and camogie squads' All-Ireland Championship starts; the summer series of Run the Banner; Aine Donegan's latest US Open bid and Munster's end of season hopes before signing off for the final time.

‘We've had our fun and that's all that matters’

Champion Chatter is the weekly local sports podcast by The Clare Champion newspaper. Publishing every Tuesday and hosted by Eoin Brennan and James Lynch, the podcast features guest analysts reviewing all the weekend’s local sporting action and looking ahead to what is in store over the coming week.

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