Clann na nGael's "Gaelic on the Green" scheme starting in Monksland and Bealnamulla
Clann na nGael are launching a new promotion to encourage greater participation in gaelic football in South Roscommon. Children from the ages of 6 to 14 are invited to attend coaching sessions on the greens in the Monksland and Bealnamulla estates.
The promotion has the backing of the Roscommon County Board and Roscommon Sports Partnership. Gerry Shine, Clann's Minor Board Chairman explained "We recognised that there were many children in the area who were not playing gaelic football and we were determined to give them an opportunity to sample gaelic football and once they try it, they could decide if it was for them. Ultimately, we would hope that girls and boys who may never have played before, will get the bug and join the club."
Clann na nGael formed a committee to organise the event. The committee's tasks involved liaising with local residents groups, identifying suitable green sites, selecting volunteer coaches and promoting the concept.
Club secretary Tom Lennon, a committee member, has been very encouraged with initial responses. "When you take on any new project you are nervous of the response, but we are very pleased with the public's reaction so far with this initiative. We will put in the effort to get the numbers out for the coaching sessions in the different venues."
The coaching sessions will take place in six separate locations over a number of weeks, culminating in two finals evenings towards the end of May where all the children will gather in Cushla Park and Johnstown. There will be no cost to the participants. Parents are encouraged to come and view the sessions and club members will be on hand to answer any questions they may have.
Committee member Sean Murray explains "A couple of years ago we were involved in "Gaelic for Girls" in Monksland which was very successful and this year we are expanding the idea and are very hopeful of generating the interest to have an even greater outcome. We all have a passion for the game and we feel that we have a duty to pass on the message of the enormous benefits of our national game to all the girls and boys in the area."
The times and venues for the first sessions are
- Barley Fields, Monday 26th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- Sli An Coiste, Monday 26th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- Cluainbroc, Monday 26th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- Monksfield, Tuesday 27th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- Ashford, Tuesday 27th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
- River Village, Tuesday 27th April from 6.30pm to 7.30pm
"This is about bringing football to the doorsteps" committee member Liam Fallon explained. "Once they attend, we can demonstrate what our sport is all about and explain the community nature of our club and the benefits to both the players and their families in getting involved in gaelic football. Anyone interested simply needs to turn up to their nearest green area for the scheduled session and join in."
