DCU Sport agus Spraoi a huge success

An initiative to involve teenage girls in the sport of Camogie took place on Wednesday, 18th October, in DCU.  Sp¾rt agus Spraoi le CholßistÝ was established in 2005 by Cumann Cam¾gaÝochta na nGael in conjunction with the Irish Sports Council through its Women in Sport programme.

The aim of Sp¾rt agus Spraoi le CholaistÝ is to increase participation amongst girls beginning post primary education, an age where many tend to drop out of physical activity. 

200 1st and 2nd year students from Dublin post primary schools travelled to a participation day hosted by Dublin City University Camogie Club.  All levels of players were in attendance from beginner’s right up to girls who play regularly at a high level.

All students received coaching from members of the DCU college team and qualified 4th and 5th year students from Portmarnock C.S. while their teachers enjoyed an æIndoor Camogie and Wall Ball’ workshop from Dublin Development Officer Eve Talbot.

DCU sports grounds came alive in the afternoon with 5 pitches allocated to the 20 teams taking part. Special guest, Mary O’ Connor, Director of Camogie Development, was delighted to see so many young ladies getting involved and enjoying themselves.

Jennifer Steede, National Second Level Development Officer for the Camogie Association said ,’A fun, participation day like to day’s event shows that Camogie is a sport which can be enjoyed at all levels. In particular, it is fantastic to see non-nationals becoming involved in our sporting culture. There are approximately 25 out of the 200 girls today who originate from different countries. No doubt we will soon see these girls playing for Dublin Clubs as Camogie continues to progress’

Participating Schools: Balbriggan C. S., Blakestown C. S.,  Colaiste Iosagßin,  Loreto Secondary, Balbriggan,  Mercy College, Coolock, Old Bawn C.S, Pobalscoil Rosmini,  Portmarnock C. S. ,Scoil ChaitrÝona, St. Mary’s, Glasnevin and  Loreto on the Green

If any schools are interested in entering the Dublin Colleges Championship or establishing a camogie team in their school please contact Jennifer Steede on 087 643 6579 or email Jennifer@camogie.ie.

This is the third year of Sp¾rt agus Spraoi le CholaistÝ and the programme has gone from strength to strength. Athlone IT sports department are currently preparing to host æSp¾rt agus Spraoi’ on November 30th. Post primary schools from Offaly, Westmeath, Roscommon, Galway and Longford will have this same great opportunity on their doorstep.

Ends

For further information:
Declan Lee – O’Herlihy Communications – 01 660 2744
Jennifer Steede – National 2nd Level Development Officer – 087 643 6579

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