The year of 2024 has certainly been a memorable one so far for the pupils and staff at Moneynick Primary School. The school itself were finalists at the Cumann na mBunscol National Awards for both Promotion of Gaelic Games and Culture and the Small School of the Year categories. These prestigious accolades highlighted the dedication shown by the teachers, scholars and wider school community in their continued commitment towards Gaelic games, culture and ethos.
Being one of the group of pioneers in South West Antrim to participate in the newly formed Schools League in 1924, Moneynick has shown over the past 100 years an enduring pledge to continue and nurture our games, language and heritage.
Such people in Moneynick’s history as Tessie McKeon, Jean O’Donnell and Brenda McAteer have been followed in recent times by the passionate current school staff and a drive to further develop and ensure the deep connections the pupils have with all of their respective GAA clubs and the health, cultural and social benefits that ensures.
The magnificent journey of 2024 continues for the P7 Girls of Moneynick ps when they represent Antrim in the Indoor Cumann na mBunscol Ulster Finals on Wednesday 20th March.
Truly this is a wonderful feat for a small rural school such as Moneynick, highlighting its unswerving determination to serve all the people of Duneane and represent them with pride. Within such a hotbed of Gaelic football as Duneane, it should come as no surprise the three parish GAA teams are all engaged with the school and this is also highlighted within the Girls football team where Erin’s Own Cargin, St Ergnat’s Moneyglass and Kickham’s Creggan have two girls apiece on the team.
Again, this is reciprocated in the fantastic businesses from across Duneane who have come forward to kindly sponsor the Girl’s team for the Ulster Finals namely, the school kit sponsored by Gribbin pharmacy, a set of Antrim Jerseys donated by GP Scullin Construction, Gloves by Breathe Sports, Footballs by The Elk, Gum Shields by S Scullin Stone Effect Plastering, Bags by Mrs F McConway followed by Boyd’s Service Stations who provided Snacks and Hydration.
By Peadar McCann
