G.A.A. 125 Schools Day

Friday 24^th April was designated as a G.A.A. Jersey day in schools all over Ireland. It was part of the year-long celebrations to mark the 125^th Anniversary of the setting up of the G.A.A. in Thurles, Co. Tipperary in 1884. Our day started with a hurling coaching session for the boys on the school hurling team. All Ireland medal winner, George O’ Connor put the boys through a series of drills. The invited guests began to arrive then – Willie Murphy from the 1968 All Ireland team, Ned Buggy, Larry O’Gorman, 1996 winning team, Ned Wheeler, an All Ireland winner from the 1950s and 1960s (Ned’s grandson, Ben McMahon is one of our 3^rd class pupils). Also present were Margaret Doyle, G.A.A County Secretary, Ger Doyle, County Chairman, Seamus Howlin, Leinster Chairman and special guest, Páraic Duffy, Director General of the G.A.A.

Every pupil and teacher wore a G.A.A. jersey on the day! It was great to see so many club and county jerseys on display. The boys on the school team played a hurling match in the yard watched by pupils, parents, staff and guests. Having such a large crowd obviously spurred on the boys as the game was very competitive!

The Director General addressed the spectators and complimented everybody on making such a great effort by wearing the jerseys. He also encouraged the boys to support the Wexford hurlers when they take on Offaly in the Leinster Championship in Wexford Park on Saturday 30^th May. The rain “stopped play” early and everybody returned to their classes where they continued to wear the jerseys for the rest of the day.

We were delighted with the support from the clubs in town by way of the loan of jerseys from Faythe Harriers, St. Marys, Volunteers and Sarsfields. We also appreciate the use of the Borough Council’s public address system.

Click on the icon below for Gallery

Back