WATCH: Young hurler’s journey from Ukraine to Croker

SIX MONTHS ago several Ukrainian families arrived in the village of Clarina and took up residence and since then the children have joined the local hurling team, quite possibly the first instance of children from Ukraine partaking in hurling in Limerick.

Daniel Melnychuk, one of the young players who joined Ballybrown GAA Club along with his fellow residents and friends.

“Hurling is a good sport. My favourite Limerick hurler is Nickie Quaid,” the youngster explained, adding that the All-Star goalkeeper is also his teacher at Patrickswell National School.

Daniel got the chance to go and play in Croke Park and see the hurlers in action, something that brought him great joy and enthusiasm for the sport.

“I would like to play for Limerick”, Daniel added as he celebrated being in the quaint village since arriving from his wartorn country.

To the back of Tara House, there’s a green area where the children were rising and pucking the ball, having taken to the sport in no time and integrated well into the locality.

Deputy Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Councillor Dan McSweeney, was also in attendance alongside centre manager Owen O’Sullivan as well as a number of Ukrainian families and locals from Clarina.

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“It is with great joy and pride that we stand united, celebrating the strength of compassion and solidarity that defines us as a community. Since their arrival the visiting families have enriched our community with resilience and unique cultural contributions.

“The occasion also gives us the opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous work of our local community groups, who have shown exceptional support to our new friends. In recognition of their outstanding dedication they have been awarded grants totaling in excess of €115,000 from the Community Recognition Fund, this initiative serves as a testament of the power of unity and kindness,” Dan stated at the special event.

There were cakes and treats, which were made by the Ukrainian people with some wearing Ukrainian traditional folk dresses with blue and yellow flower hairbands.

The residents have been warmly welcomed by the community and have made a great effort to integrate.

Over 20 of the residents are working, the children attend the local schools and play for the local sports clubs and over 20 of the children attend English language lessons on a voluntary basis for three days each week over the summer holidays.