All American Hurling 5-9-09

New Hampshire Hurlers take on Maine

CONCORD, MAY 9—New Hampshire’s sole Hurling club defeated Maine today in a stunning reversal of last year’s All-American Hurling match. By a score of 9-19 to 1-4, NH’s Barley House Wolves bested the Portland Marauders at Centerpoint Church Field in Concord NH.

As the only two hurling clubs in Northern New England, and being almost all American Born, a healthy rivalry has developed, spurring both clubs to try to improve their skills as hurlers. Portland does have three Irish born players, and the Wolves have one player originally from Galway, Darragh Madden, but no players from county teams at any level. As a result, both teams have developed side by side and continue to work to learn the sport.

Playing 13 a side, the clubs play at least twice a year, with 2008 seeing Portland come out the winner both times. From that experience and a humbling yet educational match against Milwaukee in the North American Tournament, the Wolves got to work on the basics. That approach paid off in the 2009 home opener, yet they acknowledge that they have a long way to go.

“Hurling is not an easy sport to learn, but it is definitely worth it,” said NH half forward Lore Ford, “we have so much to learn, but the only thing we can do is stick with it and keep working and trying to improve.”

The northern New England teams face some common challenges, such as obtaining field use and qualified referees. The enthusiasm for hurling keeps them motivated to work through the logistical difficulties. In the end, just getting on the pitch is the important thing.

Portland Marauders 2009 Hurling Team

“If you are not smiling right now, you’re wrong,” Portland captain Pete Marietta told his team at the half, despite being behind on the scoreboard. “It’s a beautiful day and you are playing hurling…enjoy it!”

Developing hurling in New Hampshire and Maine is on the minds of both clubs. The Wolves have established a Youth Development Officer, and have purchased youth hurleys and First Touch sliothars to get some of the kids introduced to the sport this year. The clubs have also discussed pushing to start a third club in the Portsmouth NH area, about halfway between Portland Maine and Concord, NH.

“We realize that we really have to grow our own competition if we want to develop. You can practice all the time, but games get players hooked on the sport,” said NH midfielder Eddie Clements.
The Barley House Wolves will face the Portland Marauders again on Saturday May 30th at 2 PM in Portland, Maine.

View Photos from this game click here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/iamtfc/sets/72157617926469188/

Photos courtesty of Morgan Lake Adams