On Wednesday 13th May, as part of the build up to this years Feile na nGael, which will be held in Laois/Offaly, a number of GAA officials and players visited Oaklands College and St Mary’s Secondary School.
The visitors were led by the Chairman of Offaly County Board, Pat Teahan and included Mary Dunne Coaching & Games Officer in Offaly, Sinead O’Connor Development Officer with the Camogie Association. Eve O’Toole, Dublin Camogie player and PJ Ryan Kilkenny goalkeeper were also in attendance. The club were represented by Garrett Reilly, Darren Nolan and Enda Plunkett.
In each school Mr Teahan addressed a large gathering of pupils and teachers. He told them of the background to the annual Feile tournaments and introduced all of the other guests.
Sinead O’Connor advised all the young people gathered to try hurling and camogie even if they played other sports and encouraged everyone to support their friends and fellow pupils who will represent Edenderry at Feile in June.
A lively Question and Answer session followed in each school with both Eve O’Toole and PJ Ryan offering insights into what it takes to be an elite athlete in both codes together with many useful tips to the players involved in Hurling and Camogie in the area.
Following this the pupils took the opportunity to pose for photos with PJ Ryan who has to date won 5 All Ireland medals with Kilkenny.
Edenderry GAA Club wish to thank Laois/Offaly Feile Committee for organising the visits which will raise awareness of Hurling in the club. This years Feile takes place from June 19-21. Warwickshire will be hosted by Edenderry for the weekend and we will also play games against Ballinamere/Durrow and Woodford Gaels (Cavan).
