Cumann na mBunscol an Dúin - Handball Initiative

Handball Initiative

Mini Handball in Primary Schools.

One of the aims of our committee for the school year 2007/2008 is the introduction and development of Mini Handball in our primary schools. In May 2007 a strategic plan for this was submitted to Coiste Naisunta (Cumann na mBunscol Committee ) and with the approval of Croke Park, an initial grant was provided to finance this plan.

All schools were duly notified of this initiative and, at a subsequent meeting in St. Mary's P.S. Aughlisnafin, a steering group was set up under the chairmanship of Paddy Hardy. Other members of that committee are: Kenny Conlon, John McVeigh, Adrian Savage, Paul Shields, Michael Hanly and Pat Watterson. Promotional material which includes handballs and goggles is being delivered to the schools involved in the introduction of the game. The following schools have already indicated their willingness to participate in the Mini Handball: St. Mary's Killyleagh, Killough, Dechomet, Ballyholland, Ballykinlar, Aughlisnafin, Darragh Cross, Strangford, Saval and St. Joseph's Newry. In the first term, these schools will attempt to have the game up and running. After this initial trial period, the teachers intend having a conference to discuss their experiences. All requiremernts with regard to coaching and training for teachers and the pupils who intend playing this Mini Handball will then be identified. Cumann na mBunscol an Duin are grateful for those schools who intend participating in this pilot scheme which, no doubt, will benefit all in the promotion of handball in our schools.