ALLIANZ Cumann na mBunscol Thír Eoghain
1 Wall Handball Tyrone Blitzes 2017
Following the success of previous 1-Wall Handball Doubles blitzes, Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Thír Eoghain embarked upon another series of games this year.
As was the case last year, St. Joseph's College, Coalisland, and St. Ciaran's College, Ballygawley acted as wonderful host venues over the past two days.
Both St. Joseph's and St. Ciaran's launched their One Wall courts in 2010 and considering that the two Colleges now have 9 One-Wall Handball courts between them, the continued growth, rapid expansion and popularity of 1 wall handball in our schools is very evident.
5 primary schools competed on Day 1 in St. Ciaran’s College, Ballygawley: Glencull, Loughmacrory, Beragh, Drumduff and Carrickmore. After a superb day’s Handball, a cracking St. Teresa’s P.S. Loughmacrory boys team brought home double gold medals whilst Drumduff boys claimed county silver medals. In the girls’ competition, a talented Drumduff P.S. took gold this time with a gallant St. Oliver Plunkett P.S. Beragh securing silver.
In the Blitz at St. Joseph's College, Coalisland, 6 schools entered: Kingsisland, Edendork, Primate Dixon, HTPS Cookstown, Pomeroy and Galbally. The Girls' Doubles event was won by a formidable Edendork P.S. with a gifted Primate Dixon P.S., just losing out to claim second place. The Boys' Doubles title was won by impressive first-timers St. Mary’s P.S. Pomeroy with the Runners-Up spot being secured by a spirited Edendork P.S. duo.
The events have seen terrific participation and skill from the primary schools involved. This excellent Allianz Cumann na mBunscol 1-Wall Handball Schools initiative at primary school level continues to gather pace with many more schools now participating in Handball games throughout Tyrone.
Many thanks to the host schools with Mrs. Rose-Mary Nelis and Mr. Richard Thornton in St. Joseph's College, Coalisland and Mrs. Maria Curran and Mr. Martin McElkennon in St. Ciaran's College. We also thank the Year 13 students from both schools who expertly refereed the games. We acknowledge the assistance from Handball Ireland NDO, Darragh Daly, for his invaluable work in promoting Handball in our schools. Thanks, also, to Mickey Quinn for ensuring the smooth running of events over the two days.
Finally, well done to our pupils and teachers for their continued support of our national games. Go raibh maith agaibh go léir.
