Today we welcomed Aoibheann Cleary and Maire O’ Shaughnessy from the Meath Ladies Team to St. Declan’s. The  ladies team won an All Ireland against Dublin earlier this season.  We are also thrilled to welcome Seán Tyrell back to our school as a member of the triumphant Meath Minors squad who also captured an All Ireland win. Seán was a pivotal member on our school football team when he attended St. Declan’s. As part of the celebrations the children  all children wore their county colours of green and yellow.

Junior Infants to second classes formed a guard of honour while classes 3rc to 6th went up to the yard to welcome the girls and Seán. The children made Meath flags, hats, jerseys and pictures for the occasion. Mr Kearins congratulated them on their success and asked them to say a few words. Seán spoke about his time in St. Declan’s and how influential his teachers were and how important school and sport is. Aoibheann spoke about the importance of determination and how they lost two All Ireland’s previously but they  persevered to go on to win this year. She thanked her family for their dedication bringing her to matches and training. Mr Melia said a few words and is looking forward to getting football back up and running in St. Declan’s when it is safe to do so.

It was a great day and we all really enjoyed it. Who knows maybe some of our children will go on to play for Meath and come back to St. Declan’s to showcase their silverware. Thank you to Aoibheann, Maire and Seán for talking the time to visit it.