Avoca National School - S. N. Phàdraig Naofa

Sport in the school

Gaelic games have always been at the heart of sporting activity in Avoca School. In previous years the principal, Mr.Andy Gallagher, and the deputy principal, Mr. Eddie O'Sullivan, both took an active interest in the promotion of our native games. Every day at break time Mr. Gallagher donned his boots and footballed with the boys on the pitch. Mr. O'Sullivan, a native of Kilkenny, had a particular love of hurling and camogie and this interest often brought rewards to the school when our teams participated in school leagues.

Currently the school is very fortunate to have the services of an external GAA coach and the guidance of staff member, Miss Aisling O'Leary who hails from Kerry. This has rekindled an interest in the games and has led to the establishment of a very popular kindergarten for junior members in the village.

However, sport in the school is not confined to GAA. There is a policy of fostering a variety of sports to encourage all children to participate in physical activity at all levels. With this aim in mind, the staff organise leagues and tutelage for different sports according to the seasons. For example, in the winter activities such as badminton and table tennis take place indoors and in the fine weather we head outdoors for basketball, netball, athletics, rounders and relay races.

Sports Rules

1. Courtesy to fellow players and teachers always.

2. No jewellery or long nails.

3. Correct equipment:

• Runners for basketball
• Clothes change for football
• Helmet for hurling

4. Be on pitch/court on time - don't let your team down.

5. No gymnastics, handstands or trains in the playground