Hospital's John the Baptist Community School launches ground-breaking Academy

THE launch of John the Baptist Community School’s (JTBCS) ground-breaking GAA, Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Academy took place recently. Open to all students, the Academy aims to foster sporting excellence.

Representatives from local clubs and primary schools were led through the guiding principles and ethos of the Academy. They then participated in informative hurling and football workshops on the school’s pitch and Astro pitch.

This was followed by a workshop in the school’s new state of the art gym.

The JTBCS Academy is being supported by Limerick GAA, Limerick LGFA and the Limerick Camogie Association. The aim of the Academy is to build technical and tactical skills as well as teamwork, all within a sustainable structure built on positive relationships.

Combining the knowledge of renowned Athletic Performance Coach Darragh Droog (Limerick Hurling Academy) with that of highly experienced practitioners within the school, the Academy will develop further an ecosystem within which students can thrive as athletes.

This new Academy has been the result of relentless dedication by a group of passionate educators in the form of the JTBCS Sports Department.

Their vision was to create an environment that would provide equal opportunities for both girls and boys to excel, thereby promoting physical and mental well-being for all students.

Principal Rachel Hayes expressed her enthusiasm for the launch, stating, "We strongly believe in the power of sports to transform lives and build character. The JTBCS GAA, LGF and Camogie Academy will be a platform where our students can not only enhance their abilities but also learn essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline and perseverance."  

The Academy caters for students from 1st to 6th Year. Each age group will enjoy a carefully designed programme of training experiences, with the focus of each group shifting based on developmental goals.

One way in which the Academy programme distinguishes itself is by incorporating yoga into its timetable. Led by JTBCS teacher Suzanne Mortell, yoga sessions are integrated into the Academy's weekly schedule to develop mental focus and flexibility, complementing physical training and promoting overall wellness. 

The launch of the JTBCS GAA, LGF and Camogie Academy has generated huge excitement among students, parents, and the wider community.

This forward looking project only serves to further solidify John the Baptist Community School’s position as a beacon of excellence in sports education.