Patricia Cully presenting Michael Leonard with a copy of the book.

Boardsmill set to make more history with book launch

Story of Gaelic games in parish since 1912

John Donohoe

Published: Thu 6 Nov 2025, 10:44 AM

After many years in the making, the official launch of 'A History of Gaelic Games in Boardsmill, 1912–2012' will take place on Saturday 8th November at 8pm in Co Meath Golf Club, Trim. A celebration Mass will be held beforehand in Boardsmill Church at 6.30pm, offering a blessing for all those who are no longer with us and for the continued health and success of our club members and parishioners.

Although Boardsmill GAA was not officially founded until 1944, Gaelic games and cultural traditions have flourished in the parish since 1912. Boardsmill is a quintessential Irish community, complete with a church, a primary school, and a GAA pitch. It is the GAA club, however, that truly put Boardsmill on the map — renowned for its strong hurlers, determined camogie players, and stylish footballers.

This book is the result of the generosity and dedication of so many within our parish, as we gathered resources, stories, memoirs, and memories — all things proudly Boardsmill.

Chairman TJ Reilly with his copy of the new history.

Inside, readers will find the origins of Gaelic Games in Boardsmill, from early participation in the Meath Championships of 1912 to the Junior Hurling Championship victory in 1947, followed by a first Senior Championship title in 1958, and the legendary three-in-a-row Meath Senior Hurling Championships during the 1970s.

Boardsmill camogie also carved its place in history, claiming a remarkable three-in-a-row Meath Camogie Championships in the 1960s before enjoying a vibrant revival in the 2000s. The book also explores the growth of Ladies Football within the club — a movement that welcomed many members home to don the blue geansaí once again. Thanks to a determined Ladies Football Committee, the club rose through the ranks, securing Junior and Intermediate titles before establishing itself as a respected Senior club.

The formation of a juvenile section across all codes has been central to the club’s ongoing success. Today, Páirc Chill Mhuire comes alive on summer evenings, a testament to the thriving spirit of our young players.