All-Ireland U16A champions honoured at Moate event
By Rebekah O'Reilly
Moate Community School's U16 girls football team were subject to a joyful celebration in the school on Monday, March 24, following their All-Ireland 'A' title win last week.
The girls were welcomed into the school with a guard of honour and a clamour of cheers and congratulations, as they made history for their school.
"These young athletes have fought against the very best teams from all four provinces, and have emerged victorious," said Tom Lowry, Moate CS Principal, addressing the crowd of parents and students who gathered to mark the momentous occasion.
"The final was nothing short of thrilling. From the very first whistle our girls dominated the first half, displaying skill, determination, and teamwork. But true champions are tested, and the opposition came back strong. Our girls showed resilience, fighting for every ball, defending with everything they had, and proving that they were not going to let history slip away.
"And then the final whistle - what an unforgettable moment for all of us who were there. The feeling of pure joy, of pride, and celebration will forever be etched in our memories."
Principal Mr Lowry went on to highlight the impact of all the teams who came before, as well as the teachers and coaches who had given their time and support to the girls, noting that it had all built up to this sweet moment of success.
"This support, encouragement, and commitment has been instrumental in shaping this team into the champions that they are today. From early morning training sessions, to sideline cheers, your pride in these girls shined as brightly as the medals that they are being presented with.
"This moment showcases the spirit of determination and excellence that defines our school and our local area. You, our young players, have become role models for younger students, showing that with hard work, team work, and self belief, anything is possible."
Moate CS joint captains ÁIne Bracken and Erin Ó Faoláin presented their coaches with two beautiful bouquets of flowers and chocolates to thank them for their work throughout the year.
"We wanted to thank our coaches, Ms Quinn and Ms Hughes, for all they've done and all they time they have put into our team. We've had such a great year, and have all bonded so much over the season," the girls said.
Amy Hughes, joint manager of the Moate CS team, said: "When I was in school here a few short years ago, and Ms Quinn was my teacher and my coach, little did I know that I would be standing here a few years later as joint coach of an All-Ireland winning team. I would like to say how lucky I am to have shared this experience with you Fidelma, your legacy of ladies football in Moate Community School is outstanding, and you have touched everyone with your love for this sport."
Ms Hughes went on to thank the school staff and the parents for all of their support throughout the year.
She continued: "To all the local clubs, thank you for developing these young players, and for providing an opportunity for ladies football in our local area. To the town of Moate, thanks for getting behind the girls, and adding to the build up of the big day, It was really special see the pink and navy proudly dotted around the town.
"To the U16A All Ireland champions, you did this for yourself, your family, your club, and your county. It has been a pleasure and a privilege working with you all."
Joint manager Fidelma Quinn expressed her pride in the team in a different way, as she read out a poem she had written for the victorious girls team.
The concluding stanza was met with cheers from the crowd, as Ms Quinn proclaimed: "MCS forever in history with pride, with parents, the school, and support by our side. And so it was, and so we are the best, All Ireland Champions, simply better than all the rest."