1. What excites you most about joining the St Mary’s CBGS community?
Stepping into a new environment where I can bring fresh energy and ideas but also learn from others with different perspectives and experiences. It is really motivating to take on new challenges and I am excited at what the future may hold.
2. How have you been welcomed into the school so far?
Everyone has been great and fully supportive of me since I arrived at the school. They have helped my transition into my new role be an easy one.
3. What do you hope to bring to Gaelic games at St Mary’s?
I hope to bring a strong work ethic, adaptability, and passion to the job. Furthermore, I will remain focused on delivering high-quality results, especially given my extensive GAA experience.
4. What makes St Mary’s CBGS special to you?
St Mary’s is a local school and has been the backbone of the West Belfast community. It is steeped in GAA history and has the potential to be the leading school in Gaelic games. I aim to be part of this chapter in the school’s history.
5. How do you see your role in supporting pupils both on and off the pitch?
On the field, my role is to help nurture not only their athletic development but their personal growth. I also hope to create a positive playing environment where it’s inclusive and fun, with emphasis on teamwork, respect, and fair play. I am also here to identify and support our talented players and give them opportunities to progress within the GAA player pathway (Talent academies) and assist our coaches by running education workshops to build sustainability in the school.
Off the field I want to promote personal development by using sport as a vehicle to teach life skills, encourage confidence and self-esteem, and recognise and reward effort, not just success. Aim is also to develop links between the school, clubs, and the wider community, and to try and make the transition from school to club to keep our young people involved in sport. Lastly, be a role model and mentor and support our pupils in whatever challenges they may face, whether this is sporting, academic, or personal.
6. What are you most looking forward to in the months ahead?
Developing relationships not only with the coaches and staff in the school, but also making these with our feeder schools, clubs and the wider GAA community in West Belfast and further afield.
7. Do you have a message for the pupils, staff, and wider school community as you begin your role?
I am really looking forward to developing GAA in our school and my hope is to develop relationships with both staff and pupils and the wider community. I am open to any support and input that people may give as I feel this can only bring everyone together in delivering the school to its full potential.
8. How important is it for young players to enjoy their sport as well as develop their skills?
It is incredibly important for young players to enjoy their sport in school, not just focus on skill development. Enjoyment is what keeps them motivated, engaged and willing to put in the effort over the long term. If they aren’t having fun, even the most talented players can burn our or lose interest. When pupils enjoy what they are doing, they are more open to learning, giving feedback and pushing themselves to improve.
9. What role do you think Gaelic games can play in building friendships and community spirit in the school?
Gaelic games play a very important role in building friendships and community spirit in school. They bring students together through teamwork, helping them to trust and support each other. Playing on a team allows students to make new friends and feel included, no matter their skill level. Representing the school in matches also creates a sense of pride and belonging.
Whether its training, winning , or just having fun Gaelic Games help build a positive atmosphere and stronger connections between students, teachers and the wider school community.
10. How will you work with teachers and coaches to create the best environment for players?
10. How will you work with teachers and coaches to create the best environment for players?
I believe the best environment for players comes from strong collaboration between teachers, coaches and support staff. I would work closely with both groups to ensure the we are aligned on expectations, communication and the overall wellbeing of each player, both on and off the field.
11. Are there any particular values or lessons from Gaelic games you want to pass on to the pupils?
Gaelic Games teach so many valuable life lessons that go far beyond the pitch and I would love to pass those on to pupils. First and foremost is respect, for teammates, opponents, referees and the game itself is a core value. It builds character and helps create a positive culture both on and off the field. I also want the pupils to understand the importance of Teamwork and selflessness that success comes from working together, supporting each other and putting the group ahead of the individuals. Its about community pride.
12. What do you see as the biggest opportunities for Gaelic games at St Mary’s?
I think the biggest opportunity for the school is to continue building a strong, well-rounded environment where students are supported not only in their Gaelic Games but in their personal growth, creativity and physical wellbeing. By strengthening partnerships between myself, coaches, teachers, families and the wider community, GAA games in St Mary’s will flourish and excel in all levels of GAA Games across Ulster.
