MFC Sports launches Ógra Gael initiative to boost Gaelic games in Derry

Primary School Gaelic games in Derry City received a massive boost on Friday last with the launch of MFC’s Ogra Gael investment in conjunction with Chathair Dhoire Cumann na mBunscol, at the Foyle Arena, when representatives from 22 primary schools from across the city turned up to show their full support.

MFC, a leading sportswear brand established in the city since 2011, aims to expand the Primary Schools’ Club Championships, elevating its profile, prizes and significance for local schools. MFC Sports designs, develops and delivers high quality teamwear to clubs to be able to represent their crest and colours in a way that is meaningful to them, embodying pride of place. It was founded by GAA stalwart Sean O’Neill who was joined later as the business progressed by fellow teammate Fabian O’Neill.

As well as 22 schools represented, Friday’s event also saw over a dozen primary and secondary school principals turn up, and numerous past pupils who have since went on to represent Derry at County level. 

Mr Feargal Friel, Acting Principal at Hollybush Primary School, a committed supporter of the importance of community and cultural attachment for children commented,

‘The promotion of Gaelic games and sport in general is core to who we are at Hollybush. As a school, we have seen a surge, not only in pupil participation, in Gaelic games, but in the quality of play. We are especially proud of many of our past pupils’ achievements, some of whom have gone on to represent the county. This is a central part of our cultural heritage and our identity. It’s about who we are.’

IN PICTURES: Ógra Gael tournament to boost school Gaelic games in Derry

The initiative strengthens the connection between city schools and local Gaelic clubs

This initiative is expected to boost engagement with Gaelic games across the city and county, sparking greater interest in both club-level championships and Gaelic football in general and is seen as a positive step towards strengthening the connection between schools, in the city and local Gaelic clubs.

Paul Simpson, who has been involved in developing Gaelic games in the city for many years and a driving force behind Chathair Dhoire MacRory Cup rise, said: ‘This partnership will help embed the club championships as part of our sporting year and the chance for schools to receive kit, at a time when we know budgets are already stretched, is most welcome.

'The fantastic work being done in our schools by the GPOs is further cemented by this partnership and we can see by the participation numbers how important it is for our clubs.’

The pupils who turned up at Friday’s launch enjoyed a fantastic afternoon, taking part in a mini-Ulster Championship, meeting the Mayor, Ruairi McHugh, and also receiving a pair of Gaelic gloves as a special gift.

As well as the Mayor attending Friday’s event, there was also Stephen Barker (CEO, Derry County GAA); County Games Development Officer, Cillian Conlon and Sean O’Neill and his PR Team from MFC.

Speaking at Friday’s launch, Mr. Sean O’Neill (managing director) said he was proud to be involved with the venture.

‘MFC Sports is delighted to support the promotion of Gaelic games within the city. Over the last number of years, the teachers and students have put their all into these championships and we at MFC Sports are proud to support their hard work. MFC Ogra Gael will hopefully be a highlight in the school calendar for many years to come.’