In Clongowes, we are fortunate that we are part of a global living tradition of Jesuit education which inspires all of us - students, staff and parents alike. Our challenge is how we live out our Jesuit charism, help form our students and staff in Ignatian spirituality, and how we bring to life the Jesuit vision for education.
It is all too easy for the boys to rush through the school year, however, eager to get on with all the busyness that school life brings. There are lessons to attend, practices and rehearsals to join in, matches to play, study to complete, meals to eat. There are class tests and exams, birthdays and holidays. The boys know that they must work hard to achieve what they want to in life. But we regularly pause, at Morning Prayer in the Concourse, or the weekly Examen, or at Mass on a Sunday morning, and express our gratitude for what we have been given, and for what is good and going well in our lives.
I want to thank our Jesuit Community and my colleagues – teachers, prefects, coaches, all the support staff, and the senior management team - for everything they do, and everything they inspire in those around them. I hope that they never doubt for a single moment the real and tangible difference they all make.
We have a focus on forming both the mind and the heart of our students and creating a positive culture of community. Clongowes Life 2025 is packed full of so many examples of this, and I hope that you enjoy reading it!
Chris Lumb Headmaster
June 2025
CONTRIBUTORS
This year’s Clongowes Life is packed with images from the 211th school year, 2024-2025. Clongowes is a busy place so it is impossible for one person to capture all of the big and not so big moments. We are very grateful to all of the staff who took the time to take pictures, share achievements and spotlight the wonderful work that happens every day in the school. Thank you also to the boys who were happy to be part of the magazine and allow the school, their parents and friends to celebrate their contributions to school life in Clongowes this year. A word of thanks also to OC Gerry O’Sullivan (GPFoto) for providing the Junior and Senior Rugby Cup images.
CAMPUS NEWS COLLEGE LIFE
AEDS
We were so grateful to receive a gift of 3 AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). There are now a total of 6 AEDs in Clongowes as well as a portable machine for trips away. Our thanks to parents, David and Siobhán Evans and the In a Heartbeat Foundation.
RETIREMENTS
Mary Courtney - After almost 18 years as Finance Manager, Mary has taken her well deserved retirement!
NEW HOUSE LEADERS
At Clongowes, developing leadership skills through the lens of Ignatian values is a central part of the educational experience. Ignatian leadership is grounded in humility, hope, authenticity, discernment, and a deep sense of purpose. The school is organised into ten Houses, each bringing together students from every year group and guided by two Rhetoric House Leaders. These newly appointed House Leaders will take on an important role in the year ahead, serving both the school community and their peers. They’ll also enjoy leading their Houses at fun events like Sports Day and Book Character Dress Up Day!
HOUSE HOUSE LEADERS
Arrupe Timothy Boyle & Luke Duggan McGettigan
Claver Evan O’Reilly & Sebastian Hamiliton
Collins Michael O’Sullivan & James Lenehan
Gonzaga D.J. Howley & Richie Hyland
Hopkins Bernard Ibirogba & Fahed Kabalaoui
Kenney Edward Jones & Max Sweetman
Kostka Noah Dunne & Patrick Jones
Loyola Leon Zeng Patje & Ollie Worth
Sullivan Rian Kehoe & Turlough Devitt
Xavier Adam Coffey &Harry Loftus
SCHOOL CAPTAIN
James Lee
SCHOOL VICE-CAPTAINS
James Maguire
Tom Walsh
UNION DAY
A special day in the school calendar, Union Day was a wonderful celebration of Rhetoric 2025. Starting with the graduation Mass, followed by a delicious lunch in the Ref, the day ended with the Prize Giving Ceremony. As Rhetoric celebrated their graduation with their families, the rest of the school community had a wonderful time outside - enjoying picnics and activities.
ICE CREAM TREAT
Elements boys were delighted when a parent arranged a special treat - an ice cream van just for them!
PIZZA WITH BUDDIES
A pizza night was a great way for new Grammar students to get to know their buddies.
1. Max Doyle wins the Nardo Award
2. Union Day celebrations
3. Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton Aloysius Award winner
4. Max Reva winner of the Ethos Award 1.
CHRISTMAS AT CLONGOWES
Everyone loves Christmas at Clongowes! As the long first term comes to an end, we come together to celebrate the festive season as a whole school community The main event is the delicious Christmas lunch prepared (seemingly effortlessly) by our amazing catering team. Staff join with boys to enjoy this special event that is served by our hardworking House Leaders. The Carol Service this year was particularly special as it was the last led by Mr Murphy before his retirement. The service is a poignant reflection on the nativity coupled with beautiful musical numbers. Meanwhile in the dorms, Elements set new standards in dorm decoration!
CYBER SAFETY
It was great to welcome Wayne Denner, a leading speaker specialising in empowering young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
ARTS BUILDING
This year, Headmaster, Mr Lumb, announced plans for a new, dedicated Arts Building located in the heart of the school. The new building will provide for a new double height, two-storey building centrally located on the College’s educational campus. It will replace existing music practice and performance facilities, and bring the Performing Arts together in one building. One of the school’s strategic goals is to increase opportunities for boys to take part in music and drama performances and the formalising of our debating and public speaking programmes - the new arts building will be a hub in the school for all of these activities. Exciting times ahead!
MATCH AT CROKE PARK
Third Liners had a great time at Croke Park watching Leinster v Harlequins!
CÉILÍ FOR ELEMENTS!
In March, Elements boys travelled to Mount Sackville school for a céilí with the girls. Great fun was had by all!
ELEMENTS TOUR
The annual tour to Belfast is a highlight of the year! This year, the stormy weather put paid to some of the outdoor activities but nonetheless, the boys had a fantastic time and got to pack in lots of fun into their time together.
WELCOME BACK RHETORIC 2024
Leaving Cert results day is always an important one for the boys, their parents and the school. It was great to see members of Rhetoric 24 come back to celebrate with us!
NORTHERN LIGHTS
Mr O’Donoghue caught some beautiful images of the Northern Lights over the College in October.
ROWING FOR CANCER
In March a group of Poetry students took on the challenge to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society in support of 2 family members whose lives have been affected by a cancer diagnosis. The boys rowed 500 km in 24 hours and raised over €7,500. A wonderful act of solidarity and charity - well done boys!
RHETORIC ‘25 TREE
Thank you to the boys of Rhetoric 2025 who gifted a beautiful magnolia tree to the College. May it grow and flourish as you all have in Clongowes.
CAMPUS NEWS COLLEGE LIFE
ELEMENTS AWARDS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Doire Murphy, Matthew Casley, Patrick Coman, Harry Wilson, Evan Cunningham-Horan, Julian Clare
John Kenny, Zack O’ Leary, Patrick Sheridan, Thomas McKenna, Lochlainn Sweeney, Eli-John Kiernan
DILIGENCE AWARDS
Arnold Kateregga, Max Kinsella, Luke Sinnott, Callum Mooney, Luke McCullen, Lochlann Gately
ENDEAVOUR MEDALS
Johnny Goode, George Lawlor
PERFORMANCE
Davin Gaffney, Lochlainn Sweeney, Reuben McElwee
MUSIC
Naoise Ó’Dálaigh, Dermot Mulroney, Patrick Sheridan DEBATING
Luke Sinnot, Reuben McElwee, Zack O’Leary
EAL
Mauricio Garrido and Alvaro Gago
LIBRARY
Lochlann Gately, Eli-John Kiernan
SPORTS AWARDS
RUGBY
Rudiments A - Player of The Year
Boe Binham
Rudiments B - Player of The Year
John Kenny
Rudiments A - Most Improved Player
Ronan Hennessy
Rudiments B - Most Improved Player
Michael Kehoe
Rudiments P2 - Player of The Year
Alvaro Jimenez Fraille
Rudiments P2 - Most Improved Player
Arnold Kateregga
JP1- Most Improved Player
Lucas Aveling
ATHLETICS
Best Rudiments time (7:54) -
Triangle Race
Luke McCullen
Third Line 100m Cup
Ryan Mahon
TENNIS
Third Line Singles Winner
Tom Cotter
Third Line Singles Runners up
Alejo Guibert Moreno
Third Line Doubles Winner
Alejo Guibert Moreno and Fernando Medina
Third Line Doubles Runners up
Tom Cotter and Willliam Fennell
GAA
Third Line GAA - Player of The Year
Luke Ryan
GOLF
Third Line Match Player
Mauricio Garrido
SAILING
Sailor of the Year
John Kenny
CAMPUS NEWS COLLEGE LIFE
GRAMMAR AWARDS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Oluwajoba Adeyemi, Tadas Bendorius, Fionnan Boyle, George Browne, Tom English, Daniel Maguire
DILIGENCE AWARDS
Edmond Cogan, Felix Li, Daniel Mahon, Igor Mazur, Julian Schmalz, Senan Walsh
ENDEAVOUR
Scott Morrissey, Thomas McDonagh
EAL
Cyrille Annebicque, Alexander Buechsel
CHOIR
Julian Schmalz
PERFORMANCE
Daniel Maguire, Eze Nwike, Rayann Narensamy
MUSIC
Julian Schmalz, Daniel Mahon, Felix Li
CREATIVITY IN ART
Isaac Sheridan, Rayann Namarasey, Daniel Nikokam
SPORTS
RUGBY
Junior Rugby “Men for Others”
Senan Walsh
JP1 - B team player of the year
Alexander Buechsel
JP1 - B team most improved player
Patrick Akwuobi
JP2 - Player of the year
Martin Vernazobres
JP2 - Most improved player
Evan Barry
ATHLETICS
Best Grammar time (7:58) -
Triangle Race
Senan Walsh
House 400m Cup
Victor Lamph
Lower Line 100m winner
Victor Lamph
CRICKET
Junior Cricket - Player of the year
Robert Wyse
Junior Cricket - Player most improved
George Browne
GOLF
Pierce Scratch Trophy
Michael McCormick
Lower Line Match Play winner
Jack Ryan
TENNIS
Lower Line Double winners
Jack Scannell and Christian Veal
Lower Line Double Runners up
Daniel Maguire and Michael McCormick
Lower Line Single Winner
Jack Scannell
Lower Line Single Runners up
John Boyd
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball - most improved player
Joshua Rose
CAMPUS NEWS COLLEGE LIFE
POETRY AWARDS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
James Lee, Edison Cheung, Tony Zhu, Terence Long, Alex McKenna, Tim Boyle
DILIGENCE AWARDS
James Maguire, Max Sweetman, Fahed Kabaloui, John Leahy, Leon Zeng, Rian Kehoe
ENDEAVOUR MEDALS
Sean Mangan, Kenneth Crowe
EAL
Terrance Long, Tony Zhu
POPE JOHN PAUL II
Logan Fox
MATHS MODELLING
Tim Boyle, Edison Cheung, Sonny Du, Noah Dunne, Michael Guiney, Rian Kehoe, James Lee, James Lenehan, Vincent Lu, Terrance Long , Fionn Maher, PJ McGoldrick, Alex McKenna, Michael O’Grady, Evan O’Reilly, Leon Patje, Max Sweetman, Patrick Twomey, Tony Zhu
MUSIC
James Lee, James Maguire
CREATIVITY IN ART
Michael O’Grady, Charlie Hussey
SPORT AWARDS
RUGBY
Leinster U17 Schools
Turlough Devitt
Ulster U17 Schools
Ollie Worth
Munster U18 Schools
Mikey O’ Sullivan
Connacht U18
Tom Walsh
Senior 3rds - Forward of The Year
DJ Howley
Senior 4ths - Forward of The Year
Harry Loftus
Senior 5ths - Most Improved Player
Leon Patje
Contribution to Rugby Coaching
Fahed Kabalaoui
Contribution to Games Programme
Nestor Ellis Jones
SOCCER
Senior Soccer - Player The Year
Warren Bell
ATHLETICS
House High Jump Cup
Richie Hyland
Higher Line 100m Cup Winner
Bernard Ibirogba
GOLF
Higher Line - Match Play Winner
DJ Howley
SWIMMING
Most Improved Swimmer of the Year
Max Sweetman
BASKETBALL
Senior Basketball - Player of The Year
Leonard Linker
CRICKET
Senior Cricket - Most Improved Player
Nestor Ellis Jones
TENNIS
Higher Line Singles Winner
Caspar Volkens
Higher Line Singles Runners Up
Leonard Linker
Higher Line Doubles Winners
Balthasar Van Benzel and Caspar Volkens
Higher Line Doubles Runners Up
Carlo Mattei and Leonard Linker
CAMPUS NEWS COLLEGE LIFE
RHETORIC AWARDS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Lukas Felten, Nemo Wang, Eduard Giurca, Tobi Baruwa, Will Fitzpatrick
DILIGENCE AWARDS
Dara Fitzpatrick, Darragh Donnelly, Luke O’Leary, Ben D’Arcy, Matthew Mooney, Simon Kelly
ENDEAVOUR MEDALS
Arthur Ashmore, Oliver Browne
CREATIVITY IN ART
Dylan Maguire, Tom Waldron Lynch
EAL
Rui Huang, Gonzalo Orive Basterra
POPE JOHN PAUL II
Lukas Felten, Tom Groome
MUSIC
Max Reva, Maurice Prendeville, Frudi Chan
MINISTERS OF THE EUCHARIST
Tobi Baruwa, Darragh Donnelly, Max Doyle, Lukas Felten, Eduard Giurca, Tom Groome, Simon Kelly, Oisín Lambe, Philip McCartan, Luke O’Leary, Max Reva, Rory Wheatley
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE LITURGICAL OFFICERS
Tobi Baruwa, Lukas Felten, Tom Groome, Conor Keogh, Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Max Reva
SPORTS AWARDS
RUGBY
SP1 Player of the Year
Max Doyle
JV Holland Award
Ross Doyle
Senior 3rds - Back of the year
Dylan Kieran
Senior 4ths - Back of the year
Harry Ward
Senior 5ths - Player of The year
Luke O’ Leary
Senior 4th Captain (Sports tie)
Matthew Mooney
Senior 5th Captain (Sports tie)
Darragh Donelly
Contribution to Rugby refereeing
Noel Andrews, Isaac Behan
SWIMMING
Swimmer of the Year
James Elliot
GAA
Higher Line GAA - Player of the Year
Isaac Behan
ATHLETICS
House 800m Cup
Philip McCartan
HURLING
Player of The Year
Rowan Finegan-Ciomei
IRFU AWARD FOR FR SHEIL
In April we got the news that our own Rector, Fr Michael Sheil SJ, was to be recognised with a special award from the IRFU for his contribution as a volunteer and outstanding service to Schools’ Rugby. Fr Michael has been involved with the IRFU since his days at Mungret, Gonzaga, Belvedere and not least here at Clongowes. In the 1960s and 70s the French had developed a ‘cut down’ version of rugby to allow large numbers of inexperienced players to get involved. Fr Michael travelled to France to study the concept. What resulted was a 1972 booklet on mini rugby devised and translated from French by Michael. This was the ember that lit the flame of minis rugby in Ireland that has had a hugely significant impact on the game in Ireland. Congratulations Fr Michael on your very well deserved award!
SUPER SUNDAY
The first Sunday of the term was jam packed for Elements as they did lots of activities and started to get to know each other!
OLYMPIAN VISIT
The Parents’ Association kindly organised for 3-time Olympian and European medalist, Thomas Barr to visit Clongowes in February to speak with the boys and parents.
THRIVING IN COLLEGE
The Parents’ Association brought recent OCs together with Rhetoric students to share their experiences of transitioning from secondary school to university and college. We were delighted to also have nutritionist Lily O’Flaherty and Lecturer Georga Dowling share insights and advice with the boys.
RUDIMENTS ADVENTURE
Rudiments headed West to the Delphi Adventure Centre for their annual tour. A great trip full of new experiences, fun and friendships.
SOLAR FARM
We marked the official opening and blessing of the solar farm on April 10th with a special ceremony presided over by Fr Provincial Shane Daly SJ. “Caring for our Common Home” is one of the Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Jesuits, and this project brings that value to life in a very real and visible way. The event took place on a beautifully sunny day—fitting for a celebration of solar energy—and was attended by members of our Green-Schools Committee, staff, and guests. The project was made possible through the generous support of two of our current parents, Nigel and Sharon Reams, to whom we are deeply grateful.
SUNDAY OUTINGS
Throughout the year, the boys had fun outings like zip lining at Lough Key Forest Park, the National Aquatic Centre, kayaking in Bray, surfing in Strandhill and bouncing in Jumpzone!
CAMPUS NEWS ACADEMIC LIFE
ART TOUR TO PARIS
Art students with their teacher Ms Breannan, Ms Larkin and Mr McDowell, had a fantastic visit to Paris. The busy itinerary included La Galerie Dior, Puccini’s Madame Butterfly at Opera Bastille and Monet’s Water Lily series at L’Orangerie.
ART OUTSIDE
We are so lucky to have beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy for learning and creativity.
ELEMENTS AT THE ZOO
What better way to learn about the natural world, biodiversity and conservation than a day at the zoo!
BT YOUNG SCIENTIST
Eli-John Kiernan had great success at the BT Young Scientist this year! A first place award in the Chemical, Physical and Mathematical category for his project “Bowled Over”. Eli-John, a keen cricketer, undertook a statistical analysis of bowling in both male and female cricket players. Well done Eli-John!
CAMPUS
MATHS MODELLING
TY and Poetry students came together once again to solve real world problems with mathematics as part of the maths modelling programme. Working in small groups, the boys worked together to build mathematical
models for challenges, posed by Prof. Gleeson from UL, in the areas of the spread of measles, the pensions timebomb and the friendship paradox.
Under the guidance of Mr O’Hara with follow up visits from Prof Gleeson, the boys spent the year refining and documenting their models before presenting them in the University of Limerick. We are privileged to have this programme in the College - it is of huge value in developing creative thinking, teamwork and problem solving. Our thanks to Prof. Gleeson and Mr O’Hara for their dedication to the programme.
ACADEMY
Well done to the Poetry and Rhetoric students who took part in this year’s Academy. A really interesting array of papers were presented. A lot of hard work and research goes into the preparation and delivery of the Academy papers and the boys are ably guided by Fr Sheil - himself an Academician during his time at Clongowes.
Tom Groome
Conor Keogh
Hugh O’Sullivan-Sexton
Lukas Felten
D-Day: The Terrors of Normandy 80 years on
How Technology is Revolutionizing Democracy
Pablo Escobar: The Man Who Made America Addicted
Rise and Resurgence the Evolution of Neonaziism
Tobi Baruwa Human Condition: Search for Meaning Guiding Human Endeavour
Max Reva
James Lee
James Maguire
The Forsaken Self
Hip-Hop: Modern Poetry
Oscar Wilde – Ireland’s Literary Genius
Alex McKenna Under the Red Sun - Life in China During Mao Zedong’s Rule
Noah Dunne
Steve Jobs – Genius, Narcissist – or Both?
Tim Boyle Nuclear Energy – A Misunderstood Solution
CHEMISTRY OLYMPIAD
Rui Huang and Frudi Chan qualified for the 2nd round of the Chemistry Olympiad in DCU in April. They completed Round 1 in Feb and placed in the top 24 Chemistry students in Ireland.
AVCOM 2024
EUROPEAN OLYMPIAD OF EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES
Andy Zheng and Terrance Long competed in Round 2 of the European Olympiad of Experimental Sciences in DCU in November. They progressed from the 1st round to be in the top 23 physics students nationally!
MAGGIE GOUGH SUCCESS
Eli-John Kiernan (Rudiments) and Terrance Long (Poetry) both received trophies for their outstanding achievements (95% or higher) in the Maggie Gough National Maths Competition. Congratulations also to Hugo McHugh who received a medal for his performance (over 93%).
COMMENDATIONS FOR ELEMENTS
Congratulations to the Elements boys who received commendations after a great first term.
SCIFEST AT CLONGOWES
SCIFEST OVERALL WINNER
Doire Murphy Ocean Acidification
SCIFEST OVERALL RUNNER UP
Russell Kehoe Gym Buddies
STUDENTS’ CHOICE - CAPTAIN’S PRIZE
Conor Landy The Effect Of Stimulants On Grass Growth
EIRGRID CLEANER CLIMATE AWARDS EIRGRID AWARD
DJ Leonard Building a better future; reducing CO2 emissions from the production of concrete
JP Reynolds Hydrogen Harvest: Hydrogen production in various solutions
MALLINCKRODT PHARMACEUTICALS EXCELLENCE IN STEM AWARDS
Julian Clare What is the dirtiest part of our school?
Enzo Martin Aramburo The influence of car shape on aerodynamics
SCIENCE COMMUNICATION AWARDS
Aidan Farrell Population within an ecosystem
Morgan Dunne The Art of Bioluminescence
David Doyle Investigating the dynamics of a rugby ball
COMMENDED
Cameron King The Effect that Lack of Sleep has on Reaction Speed
Luke Hyland An Investigation into the Aerodynamics of a Rugby Ball
TJ Linnane The Effect of Liquids on Teeth
Conor Wyse Does the PSI of a rugby ball affect how far you can pass it?
Evan Cunningham-Horan Steaming Hot: The Influence of Solute Solubility on the Boiling Point of Water
Matthew Casley Biohacking Sleep and Recovery
Patrick Coman Do video games affect the human brain?
Luke Byrne What are the physiological and psychological impacts of sport?
Rob Lowe Do cockapoos have a good sense of smell?
Conor Brady Does ball quality affect distance and spin?
CAMPUS NEWS ACADEMIC LIFE
SCIFEST REGIONAL FINAL AT DCU
An outstanding day for Clongowes at the SciFest regional finals in DCU! As overall winner, Zack will now proceed to the National Finals in November.
TRANSLATION AWARD
Congratulations to Frudi Chan who won the Association of Translators and Interpreters Ireland Competition for secondary school students for his translation from Chinese to to English.
Overall SciFest@DCU Winner and National 2025 Finalist
SciFest Chemistry Student Award
DCU Merit Physical Sciences Award
Merit Technology Award
Zack O’ Leary
DJ Leonard
Enzo Martin Arumburo
Davin Gaffney
SPANISH DEBATING
The boys got out and about to take part in a Spanish debating competition.
JUNIOR SCIENCE QUIZ
In early May, the ISTA Junior Science teams retained 1st and 2nd places for a second consecutive year!
Huge congratulations to the winners: Tom English, Igor Mazur, Fionnán Boyle and 2nd place team: Patrick Sheridan, John Kenny, Callum Mooney.
ZOOBOTS
Grammar students had great fun building Zoobots in science class!
CAMPUS NEWS ACADEMIC LIFE
SENIOR SCIENCE QUIZ
After a win at the Regional Senior Science Quiz, the team of Eduard Giurca, Lukas Felten and Tobi Baruwa qualified for the very competitive National Final at Trinity College in November. The Clongowes team placed 4th - just 3 points off the winners!
SENIOR APPLIED MATHS NATIONAL FINAL
The senior applied maths teams travelled in Athlone in March for the National Final. Just one point off the top spot - the Clongowes teams finished in 2nd and 3rd places. Congratulations Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Nemo Wang and Tony Zhu on coming 2nd and to Will Fitzpatrick, Kavy Mebuin and Rian Kehoe on coming 3rd.
LATIN AND CLASSIC SPEECH
COMPETITION
Congratulations to Ruairí Hegarty who came second out of 15 competitors in the Latin and Classics speech competition in Trinity College Dublin in March.
YOUNG ECONOMISTS
Another great year for our aspiring economists brought back lots of medals from this year’s competition.
GOLD MEDAL
Tom Cotter & Max Kinsella
The Economic Impact of Ireland’s Aging Population: Challenges for the Pension System
Zack O’Leary & Luke Gilligan
Economic Waves: How Politics Impact the Stock Market
Jack Reams & Logan Fox
What is Ireland’s Economic Potential in Offshore Wind Investment?
SILVER MEDAL
Dara Cronin & Michael Guiney
How Purchase of Foreign Bonds can Contribute to Economic Growth and Sustainable Development
BRONZE MEDAL
Fahed Kabalaoui
Impact of Data Centers on Ireland’s Green Energy Goals: Building a Sustainable Future
Ollie Worth & Matthew Colton
How is the Mica Defective Concrete Block Crisis Going to Affect the Local Economy in Donegal?
CAMPUS NEWS CULTURAL
BOOK TREE
The beautiful book tree in the James Joyce Library is a staple of Christmas time at Clongowes.
CLASS ACT
In March, a group of aspiring actors performed as part of the Class Act drama competition. A massive congratulations to Daniel Maguire (Grammar), who received the Adjudicator’s Award!
DEAR
The opportunity to Drop Everything and Read is always welcome! Librarian, Ms O’Loughlin kindly organises the event and even provides chocolate treats for everyone.
GRADE 8 FOR RUAIRI
In January, Ruairi Hegarty received his Grade 8 Distinction from the Royal Irish Academy of Music - a huge achievement for Ruairi and his singing coach, Mr Scott.
GREEN SCHOOLS
Well done to the Green School’s Committee who secured a Travel Flag for the school. Clongowes has now been awarded a total of 3 flags including those for water and litter and waste management.
TRAD FUSION MASTERCLASS
Mr Lally is part of an innovative Trad Fusion group and the boys were delighted to attend a masterclass and play with the group.
TRAD GROUP
Another fantastic year for the Clongowes Trad Group who were out and about performing at The Brazen Head and local venues.
LUKE LEADS
Luke O’Leary (Rhetoric), an accomplished violinist, was named Orchestra Leader this year.
WESLEY INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
A wonderful day at the Wesley Festival where Julian Schmalz (Grammar) came home with a silver medal in the Classical U16 competition. Ruairi Hegarty (Rhetoric) won the Pembry Cup for Over 17s Classical Singing as well as the gold medal in his section of the over 17s Popular Singing competition.
BOOK CHARACTER DRESS UP DAY
With every House dressing up as the same character - the Book Character Dress Up Day is such a fun highlight of the year for students and staff! All brought together by our School Librarian, Ms O’Loughlin.
SCHOOL MUSICAL
With a run of 4 shows at the Moat Theatre, Naas, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a great success. Well done to all involved from the actors who entertained us, the musicians who engaged us, the backstage crew who kept everything running and of course, the team behind wardrobe, and hair and make-up who ensured everyone looked the part! The boys were joined on stage by the girls of St Wolstan’s and the show was directed and produced by Ms Byrne.
CAMPUS NEWS CULTURAL
LUNAR NEW YEAR
Celebrating the Lunar New Year - the Year of the Snake! Great activities hosted by Mr Li and our Chinese students.
NIALL RETURNS
What a treat to have the legendary storyteller, Niall de Búrca back with us to expertly weave his tales for Elements.
THIRD LINE DEBATERS
The Elements and Rudiments debating teams powered through the North Kildare Championships to reach the final!
PIANO MASTERCLASS
In February, it was great to have Professor Réamonn Keary from the Royal Irish Academy of Music to work with students.
THEATRE TRIPS
The boys were out and about at the Abbey Theatre to see ‘Emma’ where they got a backstage tour. They also visited The Riverbank Theatre where they saw ‘Outrage’ and ‘Warhorse’ at the Bord Gáis Theatre.
PAUL DEEGAN CUP
Congratulations Ruairi Hegarty who won the Paul Deegan Cup for best u19 male singer at the Feis Ceoil in June.
WATER AMBASSADORS
In November, Green Schools members, Harry Wilson, Morgan Dunne and Lucas Xu Ryan took part in a Water Ambassador Workshop on behalf of our Green-Schools Committee. The boys are now certified Water Ambassadors with the goal of raising awareness about water conservation and reducing water waste.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Always a favourite to get everyone into the festive spirit, the Christmas Concert is a great celebration of music in the school!
PAST V PRESENT DEBATE
The motion for this year’s debate was “This House believes that Artificial Intelligence will do more harm than good.” After a lively and spirited debate, ‘the present’ took the Daniel O’Connell Perpetual Cup. Well done Padraig Finnegan, Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Eduard Giurca and School Captain Lukas Felten. Our thanks to the OCs, adjudicators, Chairperson and Clongowes Union President Shane Dowling.
AFRICAN IMMERSION EXPERIENCE
The Annual African Immersion Experience for Poetry students has been described as ‘life changing’ by participants. The group travelled to Lesotho during the Easter holidays to work with the Malealea Trust. In service of the local community, the boys undertook work such as planting trees, repairing roofs and building fences. The boys also spent time in Johannesburg learning about the communities, their history and culture. Our thanks to the residents of Malealea who opened their hearts and homes to the boys as well as the Clongowes staff who accompanied the boys, making their experience possible.
MINISTERS OF THE EUCHARIST & ACOLYTES FOR THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR
MASS FOR THE OPENING OF THE 211TH SCHOOL YEAR
CYRIL MURPHY BOWS OUT
Director of Liturgy Cyril Murphy (OC ‘80) has led the Schola Cantorum and Liturgy formation with enormous enthusiasm for 14 years. A familiar face at the Sunday Mass, graduation Masses and special liturgical occasions, Cyril led the Schola at his last school Mass on May 18th. It was wonderful to see OCs and past parents returning for the occasion.
LOURDES PILGRIMAGE
Rhetoric boys with Mrs Lumb, travelled to Lourdes with the Dublin Diocese and were delighted to meet and spend time with some OCs - Luke Fitzgerald OC24, Tadhg Maloney OC18, Michael Semple OC63, Aran Maloney OC23, and Tommy Inglis OC18.
IGNATIAN LEADERSHIP
In October, the Annual Meeting of Jesuit Schools’ Leadership Council brought together the student leadership from all of the Jesuit schools across Ireland. Ignatian leadership is marked by humility, hope, authenticity, a profound sense of purpose and discernment. School Captain, Lukas Felten, took the opportunity to present a Clongowes jersey to keynote speaker, OC Simon Coveney!
CAMPUS NEWS PASTORAL LIFE
SCHOLA SING IN ROME
What an experience for current and past members of Schola who travelled to Rome over the mid-term break! From singing at Mass in the St Peter’s Basilica to performing at the Church of Saint Mary Major as well as singing for the Irish Ambassador to the Holy Sea, the boys embraced every moment. When not performing, the boys explored sites like the Colosseum, the Catacombs, and the Jesuit Curia, while deepening their Ignatian connection at the Church of Gesú.
SCHOLA AT THE 1916 COMMEMORATIONS
It was a great honour for the school and the members of Schola to be invited to sing at the Annual 1916 Rising Commemoration Mass which was attended by President Higgins, the Taoiseach and Tániste.
POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH WEEK
Positive Mental Health week was packed full of wonderful activities like, the Mindful Mile walk, Bring a Pet to School Day, guided meditations, mindful breaks in classes and Examens focusing on positive mental health.
ELEMENTS RETREAT
Elements spent a wonderful day in the beautiful valley of Glendalough for their annual retreat. Themed “Discovering God in All Things” set off hiking in groups, enjoying the natural beauty around them, bonding with their peers while walking and talking and pausing occasionally for short reflective stops. Ms Clarke’s group even added a stone skimming competition during the lunch break. What a lovely way to spend a day, connecting with nature, each other and God.
24 HOUR RUN
The boys took to the track for 24 hours in May to raise funds for the Duck Push for Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Working in teams, the boys ran 2,000km - approximately the distance from New York City to Miami!
24 HOUR SWIM
In November, the TY boys took to the Clongowes pool for a mammoth 24 Hour Swim to raise money for the Duck Push! The boys swam day and night to cover the length of the River Shannon - 360km. Well done to all involved!
HITTING THE SLOPES
Always a highlight of the year - the annual TY ski trip!
HARVEST TABLE
TY boys with Miss MacNeaney cultivated beautiful tulips and crocuses along with tasty pak choi in the Clongowes greenhouse and sold them in aid of the Duck Push.
SEAI WORKSHOP
TYs had a really interesting workshop with the SEAI to explore how renewable energy can help us to combat the impacts of climate change.
DUCK PUSH
The Duck hit the road again this year travelling to Headfort School and the Hill of Tara to raise money for Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Great work Duck Pushers!
DUCK PUSH SPINATHON
DUCK PUSH GOLF CLASSIC
Well done to the TY boys who organised the Annual Duck Push Golf Classic this year at the Millicent Golf Club.
CLONGOWES RUN
With over 200 participants, this year’s run was a huge success and raised lots of funds for the Duck Push. Best of the students was Senan Walsh (Grammar) who came 3rd place overall.
IGNATIAN CAMINO PILGRIMAGE
The annual pilgrimage in the footsteps of St Ignatius is a real highlight of TY and this year was no exception.
SPANISH EXCHANGES
We were delighted to host exchange partners from San Estanislao de Kostka, Málaga San Diego De Alcalá in Fuerteventura.
GUEST SPEAKERS
Great to have polar explorer Alex Hibbert, John Conroy Hollywood cinematographer and author Dermod Dwyer (OC64) in with his son Denis speaking to our TYs to speak to the boys about their adventures and careers.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION TRIP
What a great start to the year for the TYs - an adventure in Co Wexford!
SCUBA DIVING
In May, TYs completed their PADI licence course with open water diving in scenic Killary Fjord.
CAMPUS NEWS TRANSITION YEAR
TRANSITION YEAR (SYNTAX) AWARDS
ACADEMIC AWARDS
McCarthy Medal for Science
Andy Zheng
Michael O’Dowd Memorial Cup
Hugo McHugh
Tullabeg Award for Enterprise & Innovation
Nicholas Hunter
Peter’s Problem Prize
Janji Chan, Dylan McGriele & Andy Zheng
Medal Debate
Brian Connolly & Kye Lacey (Winner)
Finnian Browne & Michael Kelly (Runner Up)
GAISCE AWARDS
Janji Chan, Michael Drost, Alex Evans, Pharell Evenor, Nicholas Hunter, Niall Gordon, Dylan McGriele, Sean Sheehan, Andy Zheng
CREATIVITY IN ART
Janji Chan, Victor Chauvire, Jack Cormack, Joshua Grant, Luke Hynes, Henry Keane, Charlie Mangan, Andy Zheng
CREATIVITY IN MUSIC
Janji Chan, Mauro Ehrensperger, Tom Flannery, Dylan McGriele
CREATIVITY IN DRAMA
Jack Dunne, Michael Kelly, Charlie Mangan, Dylan Morrissey, Simon Ward, Andy Zheng
EAL AWARDS
Michael Drost, Zhenshu Huang
MATHS MODELLING
Finnian Browne, Pharell Evenor, Niall Gordon, Nicholas Hunter, Dylan McGriele, Martin Naughton, Harry Reams, Andy Zheng
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT
Leinster U17s Schools
Joshua Grant, Fionn Doyle, Charlie Ryan, Dylan Morrisey
Munster U17s Schools
Owen Hough
SPORTS AWARDS
RUGBY
JP1 - A team player of the year
Philip Kenny
ATHLETICS
Best Syntax time - Triangle Race
Cian Duro 7 min 51
CRICKET
Senior Cricket Player of the Year
Nicholas Hunter
GAA
Lower Line GAA - Player of the year
Victor Chauvire
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball - Player of the year
Eddie McCarthy
GROWTH IN LEADERSHIP
Andy Zheng
TRANSITION YEAR (SYNTAX) AWARDS
CAMPUS NEWS SPORTING LIFE
ATHLETICS
Clongowes boasts a vibrant athletics program, with students training twice weekly - on Tuesdays and Thursdays - throughout the academic year. Athletes represent the school in a variety of cross-country and track and field competitions. This year has been particularly successful, with both the Minor and Junior teams winning their divisions at the South Leinster Track and Field Championships. Notable individual performances included David Doyle, who claimed gold in the 75m hurdles at the Leinster Championships, and the Intermediate relay team - Daniel Maguire, Victor Lamph, Alex Bueschel, and Bernard Ibirogba - who also took first place. These talented athletes went on to represent Clongowes at the All-Ireland Championships this summer, joined by Junior discus thrower Fintan Connolly. The relay team went on to take silver at the All Ireland Championships in May, in a new pb of 44.68.
Mr Carlos, Coach
ELEMENTS BASKETBALL
After a busy season, we celebrated in May, when the Elements basketball team won in the Midlands Basketball Plate Final. Well done to these boys and coaches!
CRICKET
The Junior Cricket Team reached the final this year v Luttlerstown Community College in May!
CRIBBIN CUP
Great to have Clane GAA back for the Annual Francis Cribben Cup!
IRELAND CAP FOR LOUIS
It was a memorable year for Louis Goodman - Rhetoric student and member of the Irish High Performance Golf squad - who won his first cap for Ireland. Congratulations Louis!
IRFU CAMP
The Irish rugby team came to Clongowes for a training camp in February. Our SCT Captain and Vice Captains, Max Doyle, Arthur Ashmore and Simon Kelly were honoured to meet OCs Tadhg Beirne and Dan Sheehan.
SPORTS DAY
A fantastic sports day in Septembercongratulations to Xavier House who took the Aloysius Bowl!
ATHLETES OF THE DAY
Elements Doire Murphy
Rudiments Thomas McKenna
Grammar Victor Lamph
Syntax Victor Chauvire
Poetry Brian A McCulloch
Rhetoric Simon Kelly
CAMPUS
INTERPRO RUGBY
Fionn Doyle Leinster u17 Schools
Joshua Grant Leinster u17 Schools
Charlie Ryan Leinster u17 Schools
Turlough Devitt Leinster u17 Schools
Dylan Morrissey Leinster u17 Schools
Michael O’Sullivan Munster u18 Schools
Ross Doyle Leinster u19
Max Doyle Leinster u19
Ollie Worth Ulster u17 Schools
Tom Walsh Connacht u18 Ireland
Owen Hough Munster u17 Schools
Max Doyle Ireland u18 Schools Ireland u19
GOLF
A busy year for our golfers from coaching sessions and practice on our golf simulator, to tuition at the Golf Ireland Academy, matches against other schools and golf with friends on the Clongowes golf course - our golf programme is going from strength to strength!
O’HAGAN MCCARTHY CUP WINNERS
CAMPUS
SENIOR SOCCER
ELEMENTS RUGBY
A day to remember as Elements took their first run out in Clongowes jerseys in September.
GYM REFURB
This year we were delighted to see a fantastic refurbishment of the gym! With great new equipment and increased capacity, our athletic development programme led by Mr Brady is an integral part of school life.
LEO CULLEN COACHING
The Senior 3rds were very grateful for a coaching session from Leinster Head Coach, Leo Cullen in February.
SENIOR HURLING
The seniors hurlers had an active summer term playing matches against local clubs Sallins GAA and St Laurence’s GAA.
CAMPUS
ROLLING PIN
The hotly contested Poetry v Rhetoric annual soccer match went the way of Rhetoric this year - along with the rolling pin trophy!
WINNER ALRIGHT
Josh Williamson had a great year on the track. In May he won this year’s John Thomas McNamara Series for 7lbs Claiming Amateur Riders. Josh received his prize at the Punchestown Festival from OC’08 Patrick Mullins, Grand National winning rider!
LEAGUE WIN FOR THE SENIOR 2NDS
The final was a tense affair with Clongowes starting off on the back foot as Blackrock went over in the corner to make it 5-0 in a game that really had a bit of everything. The game swung into Clongowes favour as a momentum changing interception from prop Hugo Blessing would allow DJ Howley to pick and go over the line to make it 7-5. Blackrock would respond with another try shortly after to go ahead 12-7. This was followed up yet again with another quick response from the 3rds as Jakob Wallacher would see enough space at the base of a ruck to pick and go and walk over for 5. The added extras by Dylan Kieran made it a 14-12 game. Before half time a big
defensive set was needed as Clongowes defended multiple phases within their 5 metre line before a huge turnover was made to send them into half time on top. Blackrock started the second half strong with a penalty off the tee to edge in front 15-14. Big hits in defence by winger Rian Kehoe and prop Alex Evans would force mistakes from Blackrock meaning Clongowes would have a scrum on their 22.
A set piece move caused defenders to bite in leaving a gaping hole which was exploited by none other than Scott Hickey who went over the whitewash. Extras added by Dylan meant Clongowes had a 21-15 advantage heading into the last 20 minutes. Impact from the bench in the form of Harry Loftus, Hugo Chui, Dylan Morrisey and Kenneth Crowe would keep the momentum flowing.
After countless defensive stops by the fifteen purple and white men, a scrum was won with the referee uttering the words “last play”. Power in the front row by Liam Keogh, Tom Groome and Oisín Lambe was enough for Kenneth to sling it back to Dylan who would kick it behind into the Old Wesley stand.
For the first time since 2009, Clongowes had reclaimed the Leinster League Division 1 trophy.
A massive thanks to coaches Mr Fagan and Mr O’Hara for their dedication and leadership throughout a memorable season. As well as to Mr Brady who led strength and conditioning throughout the season.
Matthew Mooney
On the 27th of February, our first match, we were ready to get the job done. After a quick warm up and a few speeches, we were out on the pitch. We fell into our rhythm and with a tap penalty move on the line, flanker Philip Kenny scored a powerful try. A 50-22 kick by scrum half Sean Crowe led to a maul try from hooker Sean Priede. We were really hitting our stride as our loosehead prop dived over the line. Despite a fantastic score from Monkstown in the 27th minute from across the pitch, the Clongowes team kept fighting. After a hat trick by flanker Phillip Kenny, the final score racked up to 39-5. However, there was little time for celebration, as the draw for the second round occurred straight after our game. It was announced that Clongowes would be playing league winners Newbridge in the quarter-final.
When the day arrived, we were ready to deliver as best as we could. We started the game off great, with a burst of speed from prop Eze to allow number 8 Harry Lawlor dot the ball down. Newbridge reduced the deficit to 2 points with a penalty in the 7th minute. Soon however, we were back up the other end of the field and a blockdown allowed Lawlor his second try. Mere minutes later, a blocked down kick allowed Newbridge back under the sticks and back into the game. A crucial blockdown from Lucas Aveling allowed Tom English to score a try, breezing down the wing. For a long time, we stayed in control of the game until a spectacular finish from Newbridge caused the game to be all tied up in the 28th minute.However, just before the close of the second half, Lawlor sneaked over the try line to complete his hat trick.
Opening up the second half, quick hands allowed Victor Lamph to claim a score for English to convert, giving us a 31-17 lead. Following two superb touchline tackles
from winger Ryan Mahon, we believed Newbridge’s spirit to be broken. They never gave up though and quickly scored a try in the corner that was converted to bring it to a one score game. After twenty minutes of nail biting rugby with a score in it, winger Ryan Mahon shunted his opposite number into touch and we had won.
We had little time for celebrating however, as the draw was again straight after and we got St Michael’s College.
Once the first whistle blew, we were straight out of the blocks. Within a few phases of play, winger Victor Lamph picked up a loose ball and with a great finish sprinted under the posts. This was the first time (and the last) that St Michael’s had been losing in their entire cup campaign and pre season. Beyond this score, Michael’s physical style of play got the better of us, firstly with a won penalty at the breakdown and then with a maul try. In the 23rd minute, Michael’s rumbled over for another maul try followed with a well worked try from Michael’s. It would have been easy for us to give up then, but we kept fighting. A penalty inside the opposition half granted an opportunity for three points, however the ball just fell short. A try from Michael’s was shortly followed with a sprint up the wing from prop Eze who scored and was converted by Tom English to mark the half time at 31-14. The second half was much of the same in terms of Michael’s physicality and there was little that tired Clongowes bodies could do to stop the onslaught. The game ended not in the way that we had hoped, but it was a valiant effort from the whole team. Congratulations must be given to St Michael’s, who went on to beat Castleknock in the final 73-0, the largest score ever in a Junior Cup final.
Senan Walsh, JCT Captain
JUNIOR CUP RUGBY
SENIOR RUGBY
After a promising pre-season, the Senior Cup Team was selected for the first round of the Leinster Schools Senior Cup against Terenure College on Monday 27th January in Energia Park, Donnybrook. Clongowes started with intent and a 10-manrolling maul barrelled over the Terenure try line to make it 7-0 within 2 minutes. Growing ill-discipline from Clongowes gave Terenure entry and they closed the scoreline to 7-6. Clongowes hit back shortly before half-time with a barnstorming try from Arthur Ashmore down the wing, pushing the scoreboard back out to 12-6.
Mid-way through the second half, a monster long range penalty from Ross Doyle made it 15-6. Full credit to Terenure who refused to be beaten and, as Clongowes tired, they grew into the game, forcing further Clongowes ill-discipline. Eventually the Clongowes try line was breached twice in quick succession with Terenure taking the lead 18-15. Despite a late Clongowes rally, no further points were registered on the scoreboard and Terenure would progress to the quarter-final. Whilst the final result was bitterly disappointing, the courage of those in purple and white was just what one would expect from a Clongowes team in Donnybrook.
The Senior Seconds League campaign kicked off soon after with a 30-8 win over a Blackrock College XV in Dublin. This was followed up by another successful trip to Dublin the following Wednesday where an Ollie Worth drop goal sealed victory in a high scoring game against St Mary’s College. The final group match was played under lights on the VMP against Blackrock College. Clongowes had a significant share of territory but couldn’t quite convert this pressure into
points with the scoreline finishing 24-13 in favour of the opposition.
Meanwhile, the Senior firsts got back onto the pitch in the Fr. Hampson Senior Plate. A good win over Belvedere College SJ in Distillery Road was quickly followed up by a trip to Kilkenny. Some excellent attack, both from set piece and in phase play, led to a convincing win over Kilkenny College and a final to look forward to. The final was hosted by Naas Rugby Club on a beautiful spring day against local rivals Newbridge College. More well executed set piece attack helped establish a 17-6 lead but Newbridge were not to be written off and responded with 3 tries and a penalty to ultimately take the spoils 28-20.
The semi-final of the Premier Division of the Senior Seconds League was played in Ailesbury Road against St Michael’s College. A strong kick chase game combined with Clongowes characteristic presence at the defensive breakdown put Clongowes 3 points ahead with 5 minutes remaining. Frustratingly, the job was not quite finished and St Michael’s broke through the middle of a maul to snatch the decisive score. While the result of the semi-final was disappointing, the group played some excellent rugby throughout the League campaign.
The Senior Cup Team will agonise over what might have been but the experiences shared, friendships created and character developed should live much longer in the memory. The commitment of the playing group was absolute and thanks are also due to the wider coaching team whose contribution was instrumental in helping the players and the teams represent themselves with distinction and improve continuously throughout the season.
Mr.Wright, Head Coach
SAILING
This year, we were delighted to see a full team of 6 Clongowes sailors enter the Leinster Schools Team Racing Championship at the Royal Irish Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire finishing 8th out of 16 teams. Well done Doire Murphy (Elements), John Kenny (Rudiments), Max Creedon (Grammar), Tom Flannery (Syntax), Max Sweetman (Poetry) and Calum Delehanty (Rhetoric and Captain).
In the Summer term, over 35 boys signed up for sailing lessons at the Irish National Sailing School in Dun Laoghaire. This afforded the opportunity for some students to try sailing for the first time while others got back on the water to refresh their skills.
John Kenny was awarded Sailor of the Year at the annual awards day. John represented Clongowes in sailing and has also been competing nationally and internationally in his topper.
Mr Wright
THIRD LINE RUGBY LEAGUES
With mixed teams of Elements and Rudiments students, the Third Line Rugby League is a highlight of the in-house sporting calendar. Team Ireland met Team Wales for the final and after a tight match, Ireland, led by captain Luke McCullen and Vice Captain Darragh Doyle, won 14-10.
KAYAKING
PICKLEBALL
A new sport for our summer programme that proved to be really popular!
Third Liners really enjoyed taking to the river Liffey for summer sports kayaking!
LEINSTER RUGBY VISIT
What an amazing experience for the boys to meet the Leinster rugby team when they visited the school to train in the gym and VMP in November. Great to welcome back OCs Dan Sheehan and Will Connors!
CAMPUS
TRIANGLE RACE
A competitive Annual Triangle Race this year - congratulations to the winners!
Elements TJ Linnane 8:36
Rudiments Luke McCullen 7:54
Grammar Senan Walsh 7:58
Syntax Cian Duro 7:51
Poetry Logan Fox 8:06
Rhetoric Philip McCartan 7:43
MAX CAPTAINS IRELAND U19
In April, we were very proud to hear that Max Doyle was named Captain of the Ireland u19s to play Wales. In addition to the Wales match, Max played 2 matches for Ireland u19 v France.
MINOR TENNIS
NEW TENNIS COURTS
We were delighted to open our 8 newly surfaced tennis courts. The floodlights on 4 of the courts have enabled tennis all year round - day and night.
TRAINING SESSION WITH WILL CONNORS
Our thanks to OC Will Connors who generously gave of his time to come back to Clongowes to train our SP1.
CLONGOWES FOUNDATION
ABOUT FOUNDATION
The Clongowes Foundation supports the College in its mission to provide the highest standards of Jesuit education. Since 2004, it has played a key role in enhancing the school’s infrastructure and, notably, in establishing the Alberto Hurtado Bursary Programme in 2007, which has broadened access to a Clongowes education. The Foundation is grateful for the generosity of its donors—past pupils, parents, the Jesuit Community and Province, and friends of the College. The Foundation Team: Antoinette Kelly (Director of Development), Emma Robinson (Development Officer), Joe Rooney (Advisor to Clongowes Foundation) are supported by Denise Nichols and Clare Daly in Finance, the team continues to engage the wider Clongowes community in support of the College’s vision for the future.
ALBERTO HURTADO ENDOWMENT FUND –CELEBRATES 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
The Alberto Hurtado Endowment Fund, launched on January 28, 2020, aspires to make Clongowes’ bursary program self-sustaining. Five years on, the Fund‘s progress is to be celebrated and we express our gratitude to all who have supported it since its inception. With a goal of accumulating €20 million in assets for long-term sustainability, the initial drawdown to support the AHP began this year. The generosity of OCs, the Jesuit Province, along with capital appreciation and further legacies committed should help the fund grow, in terms of assets, to over 50% of its target in the coming years. Great satisfaction can be taken in the progress of the Fund in such a short period of time. Although, the Foundation is aware of the work that lies ahead and the support that is necessary if it is to reach the goal of fully funding the AHP for the indefinite future.
OC BURSARY FUNDING INITIATIVE
In 2024 a new funding initiative for the Alberto Hurtado Bursary Programme at Clongowes (AHP) was established. This initiative, pioneered by the OC’85 Year Group allows for the members of a given OC Year to come together and fund a bursary student through his six years in Clongowes in a flexible, anonymous and transparent way. The cost for a Bursary student is 140k over 6 years. By contributing 20k per annum (with the addition of the tax refund) the Year group can support a student through his time at Clongowes. The Clongowes Foundation acts as a facilitator to the Year, setting up an online iDonate fundraising page and applying for the tax credits. Currently 3-year groups have undertaken this initiative.
FR PETER KENNEY DAY 2025
The annual Fr Peter Kenney Day gathering of OCs at Clongowes took place on 11th June 2025. On this day, Fr Rector Michael Sheil and the College welcomed circa 100 visitors to spend time reconnecting with their alma mater and enjoying an engaging discussion on the life of Fr Willie Doyle SJ and the cause for his beatification and canonisation. Fr Willie Doyle (1873-1917) the Jesuit military chaplain was renowned for his heroism during WWI. He had a great love for Clongowes where he spent time as Master from 1894-98 & Prefect 1901-1903. While at Clongowes he founded The Clongownian. Fr John Hogan, Postulator for the Cause of Willie Doyle provided some wonderful insights into the person behind the story. Following lunch, the OCs had the opportunity to visit a number of the new infrastructure developments on site.
FOUNDATION TEAM: Standing, Emma Robinson, Development Officer, Clare Daly, Finance, Denise Nichol, Director of Finance and Administration. Seated, Antoinette Kelly, Director of Development, Joe Rooney, Chair of Fundraising.
Fr Rector Michael Sheil, Fr Hogan (Postulator for the cause of Fr Willie Doyle SJ), Jonathan White (President Clongowes Union), Antoinette Kelly (Clongowes Foundation)
CLONGOWES FOUNDATION
CELEBRATING CLONGOWES INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP AT DUBLIN PANEL EVENT
Clongowes Foundation welcomed over 70 guests to a panel discussion event celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship on April 3rd at the Merrion Hotel in Dublin.
The Foundation greatly valued this opportunity to bring Old Clongownians together to share insights, exchange ideas, and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within the Clongowes community.
A wonderful gathering of Old Clongownians from different years came together for the event, joined by current Poetry students, Fr Sheil, Headmaster Mr Lumb and a number of Clongowes staff. Guests had the opportunity to reconnect prior to the commencement of the Panel discussion.
Our distinguished panel—Ross Finegan OC’87 (Lonsdale Capital Partners), Gary McCarthy OC’87 (Spark Private), Mark Purcell OC’00 (Workplace Solutions, J.P. Morgan), Patrick Walsh OC’03 (Dogpatch Labs), and Richard Fitzgerald OC’02 (Augustus Media), who contributed via video message—were expertly led by Chair Peter Gray OC’73. Each speaker shared elements of the personal and professional journeys that have shaped their success, offering invaluable reflections on the entrepreneurial path. A common thread throughout their stories was the importance of self-belief, and the ability to embrace failure and challenges as essential parts of the journey toward success.
The role of Clongowes in these journeys also resonated deeply - highlighting that intangible but powerful influence that shapes character. Themes of passion, commitment, and giving your all, as well as the core values of integrity, honesty, and resilience instilled from a young age, were acknowledged as guiding principles in navigating both opportunity and adversity throughout life.
TOP: Peter Gray OC’73, Chris Lumb, Headmaster and Patrick Walsh OC’03
MIDDLE: Panelists, Patrick Walsh OC’03, Ross Finnegan OC’87, Peter Gray OC’73, Gary McCarthy OC’87 and Mark Purcell OC’00
BOTTOM: PH, Antoinette Kelly, Chris Lumb and Maelíosa Power
CLONGOWES FOUNDATION
CAPITAL PROJECT DEVELOPMENTS 2024/25
Clongowes Wood College has taken a major step forward in sustainability with the launch of a new ground-mounted solar farm on campus. This innovative development is set to provide a significant portion of the school’s electricity needs, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Officially blessed and opened on April 10th, 2025, by Fr Shane Daly SJ, Irish Jesuit Provincial, the solar farm represents a cornerstone in Clongowes’ mission to promote eco-friendly practices throughout the college. On the day Fr Daly thanked the generosity of Nigel and Sharon Reams for what he called “this symbolic and practical gift.”
The solar farm spans 0.44 hectares behind the Vinny Murray all-weather pitch and features 520 ground-mounted PV panels, each generating 550 watts. With a peak capacity of 285 kWp, it is expected to produce approximately 270,000 kWh annually, avoiding an estimated 87 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year. This marks a significant step in reducing the school›s carbon footprint.
Residential Accommodation: five new residences for prefecting staff have been constructed next to the school on Cappolis
Road. These homes are designed to provide family accommodation, supporting a stable boarding staff structure and fostering a strong, cohesive residential staff community.
Tennis Courts: 8 tennis courts behind the 1929 building have been upgraded thanks also to benevolent support from a donor. The courts have been resurfaced with Tiger Turf Advantage Pro carpet, with floodlighting provided on 4 of the courts which allows their use for evening play throughout the year. Along with new fencing surrounding the courts, new posts, nets, and concrete kerbing complete this significant upgrade.
Gym: In October, the gym underwent a comprehensive upgrade, significantly enhancing its capacity and facilities. The revamped setup can now accommodate 45 students per session, compared to the previous limit of 25. This new fitness hub will benefit all sporting programmes in the school and the entire school community. The upgrade was made possible through a philanthropic donation.
Arts Building: Construction will commence on a dedicated Arts Building on campus in Summer 2025. The building will provide for a new double height, two-storey building centrally located on the College’s
educational campus and will provide increasing opportunities for boys to take part in music and drama performances and formalise the debating and public speaking programmes.
Construction will be in two phases.
Phase 1 which will commence construction in Summer 2025 will primarily provide for the teaching element of the Arts in the College. Including new classrooms, practice rooms, a multi-media studio, and a double height multi-purpose rehearsal and performance space. The development will include landscaping to an external courtyard – to be used for summer performances - which will complete this quadrangle of the College, connected to the Infirmary building.
Phase 2 which is planned to follow the completion of Phase 1 will accommodate a 200-seat theatre with backstage facilities.
Clongowes Foundation thanks all donors for their support. For information on developments at Clongowes and how you can support please contact Antoinette Kelly 045 838215 / antoinettekelly@clongowes.net
SOLAR FARM
TENNIS COURTS
Fr Shane Daly SJ, Sharon Reams, Fr Rector Michael Sheil, Nigel Reams and Chris Lumb, Headmaster
NEWS OF THE PAST CLONGOWES UNION
UNION DAY
On Sunday 26th May 2024, I was honoured to accept the chain of office from Peter O’Meara on this very special day for the school, the Union and for my family as our last son (of 3 boys) was graduating that same day.
FR. PETER KENNEY DAY
In the absence of Tony Pierce, Fr. Rector presented a celebration of the Old Clongownian recipients of the Legion d’Honneur, followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. In attendance was H.E. Vincent Guerend, the Ambassador of France to Ireland. Following a mass in the Boys Chapel the Union presented the school with a specially commissioned portrait of Fr. Philip Fogarty.
ULSTER BRANCH AGM
In June 2024, The AGM of the Ulster Branch of the Union took place in the beautiful surroundings of Royal County Down Golf Club. The President of the Ulster Branch, Tommy Delap, sporting a Portora tie he received in 1981, paid tribute to the organisers of the golfing event, Padraig Whelan and Willie McDonald. He made reference to the long-standing history of the Clongowes Union golfing Society playing here on the best golf course in the world, and how it is very much appreciated by the society.
THE REPORT ON THE SCOPING INQUIRY
In September, The Report of the Scoping Inquiry into Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools Run by Religious Orders was published. We immediately drafted a response and published our support of all victims on the Union Website on 13th September.
THE UNION LONDON DINNER
For the first time, this event was open to the wider Clongowes family, to include, not only past pupils, but also parents and siblings. As a result, it was the largest function held by the Union, to date, in London. In total, 110 people attended the Royal Thames Yacht Club in Knightsbridge, a very special venue for a very special occasion. I have little doubt that the momentum for this function will continue to grow as word spreads throughout the Clongowes community, and it will continue to go from strength to strength in future years.
THE CLONGOWES UNION LUNCH
At 224 attendees, this was the largest attendance the Union has had to our annual lunch. This was almost exclusively made up of OCs and parents of OCs. It was also the first Union function where there was an element of music, the piano being played by James Lee (Poetry) while people gathered in the reception area. The guest speaker was Rory Best OBE, interviewed by Adrian O’Farrell (OC 1984), and the function served as an appropriate appetiser to the Ireland v The All Blacks match in the Aviva Stadium that evening. In addition, over €9,000 was raised for the Clongowes Union Benevolent Association (CUBA).
THE UNION DINNER
With 320 Old Clongownians, over 1/3 of whom left the school within the last 10 years, not only was this one of the best attended Union Dinner, but it was certainly the youngest. The RDS put on a great show, as always, with the highlights being, not only the quality of the food, the ambiance of the venue, but also the unique Clongowes coat of arms crested pints! Sincere thanks to the sponsors of the evening who made it possible, and sincere congratulations to the recipient of this year’s Alumnus of the year award, Cyril Murphy (OC 1980).
Shane Dowling and Peter O’Meara
H.E. Vincent Guerend and Shane Dowling
Shane Dowling and Rory Best OBE
Cyril Murphy and Shane Dowling
PAST V PRESENT DEBATE
The motion for this annual debate was “This house believes that Artificial Intelligence will do more harm than good”. The Government was the Past team of Brendan Kirwan (OC 90), Greg Moran (OC 84), Conall MacCarthy (OC 97) and Drew Flood (OC 84). After a fascinating debate, with lively contributions from the floor, the adjudicating panel awarded the Highly Commended awards to Greg Moran and Padraig Finnegan. The best speaker of the night award went to Conall MacCarthy, and the winning team was the Opposition comprising Padraig Finnegan, Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Eduard Giurca and Lukas Felten. Sincere thanks to Mark Lochrin, who, through his tenacity, ensured this fantastic event took place after being cancelled at the last minute in October.
THE CLONGOWES UNION BALL
Over the last number of years, a concerted effort has been made by the Union to hold at least one of its functions outside of Dublin and Leinster. The annual black-tie Ball has been held in Limerick for the last couple of years, and this year it was in the
Ardilaun Hotel, Galway. Sincere thanks to John Ryan and his team for looking after us on what was a truly special event. It was attended by OCs from 1953 all the way to 2018, with parents of current pupils, and also parents of past pupils. A sumptuous meal was followed by music from a local live band, with a DJ taking us into the early hours. Long may this event continue and flourish into the future.
ST. IGNATIUS COLLEGE RIVERVIEW, SYDNEY
While on holiday in Australia, I was honoured to be given a guided tour of our sister school, Riverview in Sydney, by two men previously heavily associated with Clongowes, Phil Amata and Damien Reidy.
ATTENDANCE AT PAST PUPILS UNIONS FUNCTIONS
I was delighted to have been afforded the opportunity of representing the Clongowes Union by attending quite a significant number of functions organised by past pupil Unions of other schools. From Crescent College and Mungret College (who were celebrating 50 years since the school closed) in Limerick, to all of the Dublin schools, it was a very busy, but hugely enjoyable and sociable year.
CONCLUSION
At the start of the year, I set certain goals, namely, to expand participation in Union events to ensure that all ages are catered for, both young and not so young, and also to include the wider Clongowes “family” in such events. With record numbers attending both the London function and the Clongowes Union Lunch, and also one of the best attended Clongowes Union Dinners, I hope these goals were achieved.
In addition, membership of the Union grew substantially, and we also raised a significant amount of funds throughout the year for the Clongowes Union Benevolent Fund.
It was a huge honour for me to represent the Union as its President for the last 12 months. I take this opportunity to thank Chris Lumb, Fr. Michael Sheil and all in the school for their support.
Also, thanks to President Elect Jonathan White, Junior Vice President Tim Kiely, Treasurer Dan O’Leary, and all of the Union Committee, for their support and hard work throughout the year. I wish Jonathan and the incoming committee the very best of luck for the next 12 months. The Union is in good hands!
Shane Dowling President Clongowes Union
Conall MacCarthy, Greg Moran, Drew Flood, Brendan Kirwan, Shane Dowling, Padraig Finnegan, Hugh O’Sullivan Sexton, Eduard Giurca and Lukas Felten
Sam, Shane and Ollie Dowling
Dan O’Leary, Shane Dowling and John Ryan
DAN SHEEHAN CAPTAINS IRELAND
Dan made his captaincy debut in February v Wales.
DAMIEN MOLONY
Damien (OC02) took on the role of TV detective Bergarac. Damien played Juror #3 in his Rhetoric production of Twelve Angry Men.
2004 REUNION
Great to welcome back Rhetoric ‘04 to Clongowes in November.
COLIN SIMON FELLOWES
Congratulations to Colin who was awarded a Trinity Foundation Scholarship.
MAX MCFARLAND
In November, OC12 Max called time on his international rugby career.
IRELAND CLUB XV
OCs
Jordan Coghlan, Bobby Sheehan, Calum Dowling and Dylan Donnellan were selected for the Ireland Club XV.
LIAM SIMON FELLOWES
Liam received a prestigious Trinity Entrance Exhibition Award in his first year at university.
DAVE KEARNEY
Former Ireland and Leinster winger, Dave announced his retirement from rugby in September.
DANIEL MAGENNIS
Daniel represented Ireland when they won the AFL Transatlantic Cup in September. Dan went on to win International Athlete of the Year at Cardiff University.
GEORGE STRICKLAND
Congratulations George who won his first international cap for Malta in April.
IRISH UNIVERSITIES
Cathal Duff and Tom Murtagh joined forces for the Irish Universities side v Ireland u20s.
JACK SHANNON
In September, Jack won the International Swiss Talent Forum Award at the EU Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) 2024 in Katowice, Poland. Jack’s success continued as he won first place at IFoRE in Washington DC in November. Jack was also inducted into the scientific honour society the Sigma Xi Society.
OCS IN THE JP FANAGAN LEAGUE
Lots of OC representation playing for Trinity and Lansdowne Rugby Clubs in the JP Fanagan League this season.
PATRICK MULLINS
A fantastic win for Patrick Mullins in the 2025 Randox Grand National riding Nick Rockett for his father, Willie.
LIONS
Best wishes and congratulations to Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Beirne who have been selected for the British and Irish Lions.
JACK KEARNEY & MICHAEL BEHAN
OCs ‘20 Jack Kearney and Michael Behan faced each other in the Trinity Rugby v Oxford University Rugby match.
TADHG BEIRNE
After a strong season that included captaining Munster, Tadhg was named the OCC Consulting Men’s XV Player’s Player of the Year.
TOM MURTAGH
Tom represented UCD at number 10 as they won the McCorry Cup Final in April.
UCD SCHOLARS
Congratulations Sam Dowling and Aodhán McGuinness who both received Entrance Scholar Awards from University College Dublin in recognition of their exceptional Leaving Certificate results.
LEINSTER SENIOR CUP
OCs Bobby Sheehan, Max and Leo Dowling were amongst a number of OCs who played in the Leinster Senior Cup this year.
DYLAN DONNELLAN
Dylan captained Clontarf to win the AIL Div 1A Final.
OLD BELVEDERE PROMOTION
Congratulations to Old Belvedere RFC, their President OC Paul Dowling and his son OC Callum Dowling (Captain) on the club›s promotion to the AIL 1A. The team was well represented by OCs David Wilkinson, Ryan McMahon, Paddy Dowling, Anthony Ryan, James Ruddy, Tom Mulcair.
ED BYRNE
Congratulations to Ed on his first year with Cardiff Rugby.
CATHAL DUFF
Cathal was selected to play on the Irish Universities side v France in March.
