Matthew Mc Carney, Joe Doherty (current pupils), Luca Mc Cusker and Aidan Flannagan (Past Pupils) with Liam O Neill, President of GAA
The children of Tattygar Primary School, Lisbellaw presented an afternoon of sporting skills, song, dance, and most memorable GAA moments to their very special guest of honour Liam O’Neill the President of the GAA.
The president also had to answer some tricky questions put to him by the primary six and seven children. The visit was in recognition of Tattygar pupils and Lisbellaw Hurling Club’s active participation in the Féile na nGael which is being hosted in Ulster this year on the weekend of Friday June 20.
The Feile na nGael is a festival of under age hurling, camogie and handball for both boys and girls, bringing children from all over Ireland together as well as clubs from outside Ireland.
President O’Neill in his address to parents, pupils, staff, governors, club, county and Ulster representatives explained that one of the main aims of the Feile na nGael is to facilitate and enable the personal, social and cultural development of the young people involved, within an environment of fun and camaraderie. He added that in order to achieve this, the local community must work very closely together forging strong links between home, school and club.
John Prunty Principal of Tattygar Primary School in his speech responded that the success of Lisbellaw Hurling Club now and in the past can be greatly attributed to the very strong link with Tattygar.
The children were especially delighted at the end when the President did a walk about, chatted among them and signed hurls, jerseys and sliothars. “He was so nice and friendly, a day I’ll never forget.” one pupil commented.
“He said his dream was to be captain of the team when he was eight and he actually became the President, it’s amazing.” another pupil recalled. All present were agreed that it was a wonderful occasion and were delighted to have met the President of the GAA a “real gentleman”.
