Our Boys Football team were crowned champions at the Rackard League Final on April 28th in Wexford Park when they defeated Horeswood. This was a super occasion and a valiant victory from our pupils. Our panel of players hail from Ballygarrett NS and Riverchapel NS and both schools are extremely proud of them.

The road to the final was a hard fought and lengthy one. After a tough match vs Bunscoil Loreto in the District Final, we eventually won by 7 points and were crowned District Champions, the first time since 2018.

Our team were then to be pitted against a spirited Boolavogue/Monageer team in the county semi final. This game took place in Blackkwater GAA on April 26th, on a very hot afternoon. In a game that was dominated by solid defences and opportunistic scoring, our team came from behind to win by 6 points in the end. Our defence was excellent on the day and our forwards worked tirelessly to create turnovers and scoring opportunities. The team were thrilled with the thoughts of a county final!

No rest for the wicked, as the Rackard League Final was set for 48 hours later in Wexford Park, the home of football and hurling in Wexford. What an occasion this was for the panel of players. We set off on the bus that sunny evening for Wexford town with hope in our hearts. When we entered the stadium it was filled with roaring and cheering as the first final was underway.The pitch was in pristine condition and the boys were eager to get out and play. The players loved the build up and the excitement of waiting in the big dressing rooms, the same dressing rooms that their Wexford heroes use for their big championship battles.

The team was supported by a large colourful and raucous following on the evening. There was flags, club colours and many generations of families in the stands to spur on the boys. The Horeswood team were slightly taller and bigger in comparison to our players, however, what we lacked in height was more than made up for by the spirit and heart shown by our team. At half time we were loosing by two points, having fought back from four points down at the water break. Some positional switches coupled with some player changes allowed us to grab a foothold at midfield and fight our way back into the lead. At that point, our boys were never headed again and we greeted the final whistle with delight and amazement.

A thoroughly enjoyable game that was end to end. Martine and MacDara raised the cup to great applause and ceremony. Photographs were taken with the team, families, grandparents and friends. This was a brilliant occasion and one that will live long in the memory of all involved.

Thank you to all our teachers, Mr Sutton, Mr Byrne Mr Fennell and Mr Madden. Thank you to our club Realt na Mara GAA, and to all our parents for your support this year. Coaching, managing and watching the team play was a joy for all involved.