Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Thír Eoghain held the official launch of their new website last Tuesday 24 November in the magnificent Garvaghey complex. The event proved to be a tremendous success with over 150 patrons, comprising pupils, teachers, club reps and special guests in attendance. Indeed, the splendid auditorium in Tyrone’s HQ was packed as everyone eagerly awaited the afternoon’s proceedings.
After a brief introduction and welcome from Tyrone CnmB secretary, Eddie Doris, the mic was passed to the Master of Ceremonies, Joe Canavan. Master Canavan was the brains behind this entire event – after he proposed the idea of hosting such an event the previous month. With much wit and humour, the special guests were introduced and what a line-up we had…
Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Thír Eoghain Chairperson, Brian McGurk (Cathaoirleach), gave a most comprehensive presentation that was very well received. Next on the podium was the history-making first female County Chairperson in Ireland, Roisin Jordan. Roisin delivered an uplifting account of the crucial role played by Tyrone’s primary schools in delivering GAA experiences – via county coaches, club personnel and teachers – to the county’s young pupils.
Tyrone Senior Football manager, Mickey Harte, then took to the stage. Mickey was his usual composed self as he addressed the hushed audience. His ‘words of wisdom’ no doubt inspired, in particular, the attentive children – who soaked up the many nuggets of advice he espoused. Mickey was followed on stage by Anne Daly (Tyrone Games Development Administrator). Anne, incidentally, helped co-ordinate the day’s activities. She spoke at length about the great work currently being done in our primary schools. Anne plays an integral role in helping CnmB deliver its extensive games programme. The final guest speaker was none other than current Tyrone star and recent International Rules winner, Peter Harte (St. Patrick’s P.S. Donaghmore). Petey recalled his own early playing days as a young lad in primary school. The fact that, little over a decade later, he has achieved so much will act as a great motivating factor for our pupils. All of our guest speakers are thanked for their inspiring words. Go raibh míle maith agaibh!
The event climaxed with Eddie giving an overview of the fantastic new website (www.cnmbtyrone.com). Gerard Corr, from School Web Design, expertly assisted with this. The pupils then availed of the opportunity to get autographs and photographs with our stars, to conclude a truly memorable occasion.
The future of Tyrone GAA is in safe hands – ‘Red Hands!’
