Category: Club News

A Christmas message from the Chairman

To a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Safe New Year

On behalf of the Committee of Ballynahinch United F.C. I wish our managers, players, supporters and sponsor’s a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Safe New Year.

Due to the pandemic 2021 has been just as difficult a year as 2020 as the pandemic has affected almost every facet of life and sadly for some it has taken many loved ones all too soon.

Our sponsors businesses have been badly hit by the lockdowns however when we eventually got back to playing again they continued to support us which is much appreciated. The managers and players returned to action with both teams being extremely competitive giving both officials and supporters alike many good afternoons which has really raised the spirits. Our supporters have come back in good numbers to create a bit of atmosphere at the Millbridge which is great to see.

The club committee has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to improve the facilities and keep the club moving forward while we are most grateful to Jimmy Brown for the endless hours he puts in every week keeping the Millbridge grounds in such good conditions.

As things stand football will recommence on Saturday 8 January 2022 and in the meantime it is my hope that over this holiday period you will all have a great time with your nearest and dearest.

Please remain vigilant in everything you do so as to keep yourself, family and friends safe and well.

Gilbert Cromie

Club Chairman

NADAFL cancels 2020/21 season

The Newcastle and District Amateur Football League Committee has been constantly reviewing the implications of the Government guidelines and latest updates.

On Tuesday 26 January, the Committee confirmed the cancellation of the 2020/2021 Newcastle League season with immediate effect.

Subject to Government and IFA Guidelines, NADAFL shall commence season 2021/22 on Saturday 7 August 2021.

Visit NADAFL website

League drawn for NAFL 1B

Due to the possible impediment to the League’s competitions this season because of the ongoing Coronavirus, the normal league format will not take place. Instead each section will be divided by draw into two parts (A and B) and played in a league format. Each section will then have play-offs between the two halves to decide champions and relegation.

We have been drawn into Section A of NAFL Division 1B which looks like this:

Aquinas FC
Ballynahinch United
Bangor Amateurs
Bryansburn Rangers
Colin Valley
Downshire YM
Dunmurry YM
Portaferry Rovers
Division 1B – Section A

Division 1B – Section B looks like this:

18th Newtownabbey Old Boys
Ballywalter Rec
Barn United
Dundonald FC
Rosemount Rec
St Luke’s FC
Mossley FC
Divison 1B – Section B

With the 2020/21 season scheduled to kick-off on Saturday 21 November, subject to appeals and Government advice, we now wait for the latest NI Executive announcement.

Meanwhile the Irish Football Association has announced that only 32 clubs will compete for this season’s Sadler’s Peaky Blinder Irish Cup.