History
of Ballela
Ballela is a little part of Ireland,
tucked away in the Diocese of Dromore. Although it
is a small unassuming place it is a land of many great
achievements in the world of the G.A.A.
Gaelic games were first played there
around the turn of the century. Football was the first
game played but Balicla is primarily known as the
land of the hurlers. One who played a major part in
the hurling tradition was Master Brian MeGilly, the
school master in Ballela in the 20's. Master MeGilly
set aside time each day to teach his students the
art of hurling. The hurling successes of the Thirties
and Forties are due, in the main to the sound foundations
laid by that great gaelic teacher.
The club's most memorable event was
in 1950 when the club produced 13 members of a Down
Senior hurling team to play Antrini.
The names which have survived the
years from the early days of hurling are those of
Doran, Burns, McCusker, Magee and McAnearney.
In 1960 football was the main game,
with hurling taking a temporary back seat. In the
70's however hurling was given back it's rightful
place due mainly to the efforts of Danny Doran. Danny's
contribution to the promotion of hurling is immeasurable
and he will long be remembered for his efforts in
procuring and developing the club's own playing fields.
