Knockbeg sets sights on its Field of GAA Dreams for Laois, Carlow and Kildare students
Historic Kildare and Leighlin Diocesan secondary school plans for future generations
Students, staff and management gathered at Knockbeg College recently to officially launch its Field of Dreams fundraiser which they hope will help deliver state-of-the-art GAA pitches for generations of students.
The Knockbeg College Field of Dreams fundraiser was officially launched on Tuesday, April 14 in the school which is located near the Laois Carlow town of Graiguecullen.
The school plans that new pitches will be ready for use by September 2027, providing "top-quality" facilities for students and athletes for years to come.
Michael Regan, Board of Management Chair, and John Maye, Principal, set out aims in a specially produced fundraising brochure.
Launch of the fundraiser. Pic: Paul Dargan
The launch was attended by Knockbeg teacher and former Laois star Chris Conway. Killian Roche, the Laois GAA senior Gaelic football team goalkeeper, who also teaches in the school, was also present. Past pupil and current Laois coach Ross Munnelly is supporting the fundraiser.
The chairperson and principal emphasised the importance of sport.
"Sport has long played a central role in life at Knockbeg. It teaches teamwork, resilience, leadership and respect; values that echo far beyond the sidelines and remain with students long after they leave the college gates.
"The new facility will ensure that current and future students have access to modern, safe and inspiring spaces in which to learn, train and thrive,” they said.
The Kildare and Leighlin Diocesan boys' school, which serves communities in Laois, Carlow and Kildare, welcomes all support.
"As we look ahead, we are inviting our extended Knockbeg family, past pupils, parents, staff, friends, local businesses and sports organisations to be part of this investment in the future.
Student Evan McGrath & Principal John Maye outside the school near Graiguecullen. Pic: Paul Dargan
"Every contribution, large or small, helps ensure that Knockbeg remains a place where young people are supported, encouraged and inspired, just as it has been for so many before them. Together we can honour the legacy of Knockbeg College while helping to build facilities that will serve generations to come,” said the appeal.
The school says you can support by donating here https://platform.payzone.ie/customer/11225/express-payment/101125 or via the Bank of Ireland Knockbeg College Field of Dreams IBAN: IE76 BOFI 9065 3138 9437 92