St. Gerard's Senior School Summer Newsletter 2024

“Education is not the filling of the pail, but the lighting of a fire”

William Butler Yeats.

Congratulations to our Leaving Certificate and Junior Cycle classes who are now in the final phases of completing their State Examinations, formally marking the end of another unique and remarkable school year. I wish to thank all of our students, colleagues and parents together with the wider St. Gerard’s School community for all of your kindness, dedication and support this year.

I congratulate and commend all of the students on every one of their successes throughout the year. Congratulations to the 6th and 3rd Year students for the manner in which they have found their pathway through both the Leaving and Junior Certificate. We pray that they will continue to be guided by the Holy Spirit and that they will receive their reward for all of their hard work and dedication to their studies. I wish the Leaving Certificate Class of 2024 well in their future paths of life and commend them on their unique and meaningful Graduation Mass and Valedictory Ceremony in May.

To our Transition Year students, I applaud all of the students who strived for success throughout Transition Year and wish them well as they enter their Leaving Certificate expedition. Well done to our 1st, 2nd and 5th Year students on their Summer Examination attainments and results which will undoubtedly lead to continued future academic success.

Family, friends and community are at the core of what we focus upon through our holistic

development of each and every student, simply asking of each individual to obtain their true potential. We encourage all of our students to take time for their families and support those in society who continue to need our support during the summer.

In particular, I wish to recognise and thank Ms Maire Nic Cana, Mr John Reidy and Mr Brendan Whelan, who are retiring after a long and distinguished service to St. Gerard’s School. I thank them for their remarkable dedication to St. Gerard’s, and on behalf of the school community, I wish Maire, John and Brendan every health and happiness during their retirement.

I also wish to acknowledge and thank the Board of Directors, The Senior Board of Education and the Junior Board of Education for their commitment to St. Gerard’s School and their continued support this year. Sincere thanks to our Parents’ Association for their time, encouragement and commitment.

We look forward with enthusiasm to the publication of our Strategic Plan 2024-2030. The publication of our Strategic Plan is the culmination of 12 months of focused review and sincere reflection, on all areas of school life, so as to build a future for St. Gerard’s School based on excellence and the uniqueness that is St. Gerard’s School.

The success of St. Gerard’s School is based on teamwork and prioritising the “you” above the “me”, so that the students continue to do the ordinary in an extraordinary way. Our Newsletter is testimony to the rich array of activities that take place daily, based on the gifts, skills and enthusiasm of our students. I wish to thank Mr Dermot Mulholland as Editor of our Newsletter for yet another superb edition which is full of smiling faces and smiling eyes, enjoying school life!

It continues to be a great privilege to work with the whole school community and I wish our St. Gerard’s School Community a restful and enjoyable summer break.

Tom Geraghty Headmaster

St. Gerard’s Parents’ Association Art Competition

Once again the St. Gerard’s Parents’ Association kindly sponsored our annual Art Competition. A special word of thanks to Nicola Duggan for her hard work in organising the judging, framing and prizes for our winners’ artworks, it couldn’t have happened without her.

This competition is open to all St.Gerard’s pupils. Neil Condron and team of the Enniskerry School of Art were the discerning judges this year. They were stunned by the variety and high standard of work created by all entrants. This is high praise from professional artists. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and creativity.

But alas not everyone can be a winner. This year’s winners are as follows:

1st Year

1st Alisa Ivaniei

2nd Sadhbh Murray

3rd Cian Jones

2nd Year

1st Alannah Smith

2nd Andrew Chen

3rd Darragh Donnegan

4th Year

1st Angelina Xu

2nd Choni Wong-Cotter

3rd Ava Browne

5th Year

1st Aoibhe Hoey

2nd Elina Dida

3rd Max Pust

6th Year

1st Charlotte Ballagh

2nd Ethna Vondrys

3rd Sarah Browne

Special Mention

Grace Earley 2nd Year

Kevin Whelan 4th Year

Lauren Roche 5th Year

Student Council 2023-2024

It has been another busy year for the Student Council. We have held regular meetings all this year with the Headmaster to brainstorm ideas and discuss students’ concerns and ideas. The students take representing their year groups very seriously. One of our biggest accomplishments this year has been discussing the introduction of trousers for girls in September. We are also moving towards a complete ban on plastic bottles from September and therefore have introduced more water fonts in the school.

We fundraised this year for the Gavin Glynn Foundation, Focus Ireland and MND (motor neurone disease). We have had speakers from these organisations come to the school to tell us more about the amazing things they do. We wish our 6th Year Student Council members all the best in the Leaving Certificate exam and we look forward to new members joining us in September.

Home Economics Italy Trip

The annual Home Economics Italy and Sorrento tour jetted off on the 25th of January for four action-packed days. It was an absolute delight to return to the ‘Eternal City’. Our first stop was at our frequently visited traditional pizza takeaway in Campo di Fiori and the students had time to browse the variety of Italian produce, oils, pasta, flowers, cheeses, and meats for sale from the stalls in Rome’s famous food market. After lunch, we visited the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Friday morning was filled with a variety of activities; a traditional coffee roasting presentation with tastings, a visit to a bee farm and then an olive oil processing plant. We travelled to a farm and watched a demonstration of how to produce homemade mozzarella and ricotta cheese and enjoyed delicious fresh mozzarella and ricotta lemon cake. After lunch, we went to a Gelato shop and attended a demonstration learning how traditional Italian ice cream is made. Saturday afternoon was spent in Sorrento enjoying the

sunshine down in the port and enjoying a few hours of shopping. In the evening we went to the cookery school and students were taught how to make gnocchi.

Saturday morning was spent exploring the ancient city of Pompeii, After Pompeii, we returned to Sorrento for another trip to an ice cream shop, and then some free time exploring Sorrento or relaxing in the hotel. Saturday evening we returned to the cookery school. The students learned how to make pizza and enjoyed participating in some traditional Italian folk dancing. On our final day, we returned to Rome, where we saw the historical highlights of the city; Coloseum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

Italy 2024 was a fantastic trip!

I would like to thank Ms Fanning, Ms Nic Cana, Mr Jennings, and Mr Cullen for all their help over the four days and also all the students who travelled with us, we enjoyed spending time with you all.

Ciara O’Connell

Irish Linguistics Olympiad

Congratulations to Patrick Chen (5th Year) on being selected for the Irish Linguistics Olympiad team who will be competing in Brazil over the Summer. This is an outstanding achievement and we wish him every success in his preparations.

Irish Olympiad of Experimental Science

Daria Bokovenko progressed to the second round of the Irish Olympiad of Experimental Science in DCU. She got a thirdplace medal out of 83 students who progressed to the second round.

BT Young Scientist Technology Exhibition 2024

The 1st years attended the BTYSTE 2024 in the RDS Dublin, on Friday 12th January 2024 which marks the 60th anniversary of the event. The event went very well and students roamed the venue and took interest in the many projects that were being showcased. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to experience and aims to encourage their interest in STEM and studying STEM in the future. Charlie Geelon, a TY student, represented St. Gerard School at the exhibition. Charlie’s project was on ‘Stopping the spread of suicide amongst teens due to social media’

Mathematics Competition

It’s been a busy year for the Maths Department. The First Year’s competed in the IMTA Junior Mathematics Competition in January with a total of over 14,000 students from 233 schools taking part this year. Congratulations to Tenghis Byambajav and Evan Barry Keane who were two of only 63 students nationwide to achieve over 80% and were awarded an IMTA medal in recognition of this remarkable achievement.

Three third-year teams competed in the Wicklow section of the IMTA Pi Quiz, held this year in Glenart College, Arklow on Pi day (14th March). They finished an impressive 4th and 5th on the day out of over 28 teams. The students competing were; Shane Whelan, Aoibhinn Lake, Kavin Venkatesan, Beth Sherwin, Eva Carey, Luisa Carvalho e Silva Kracke, Emma Malacalza, Isabelle Bownes, Adam Devitt, Ciara Heffernan, Lily Earley and Sofia Sturlesi.

The Second and Fourth Years both competed in the new IMTA Maggie Gough problem-solving competition and performed extremely well. IMTA certificates are awarded to anyone finishing in the top 10% nationally and a total of 8 St Gerard’s students were recognised for their fantastic results. Cathy Keogh, Ciarán Harrington, Daria Bokovenko, Lis Ahinara Aguilar Galaviz, Santiago Miranda and Sean Doyle from Transition Year and Second Years Matthew Priest and Jamie Lake.

Model United Nations

Junior ISTA Science Quiz

Two Junior teams performed well in the ISTA science quiz in Belvedere. Team A came 3rd place and Team B came 5th place. A total of 30 teams took part.

Team A: Aoibhinn Lake, Adam Devitt, Finn Jolly

Team B: Kavin Venkatesan, Robert Sheridan, Isobel Bownes

Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations where students play the role of delegates from different countries and attempt to solve real-world issues with the policies and perspectives of their assigned country. The Blackrock College MUN Conference took place at the end of January. A team of St. Gerard’s 5th Year students represented the delegation of Chad. Laura Cullen in 6th Year chaired the SOCHUM committee and finished out her successful MUN career. The Wesley College MUN conference took place in February. This is a large conference with schools from all over Ireland represented. The St. Gerard’s students were tasked with representing the nation of Japan. Sarah Daniel in 5th Year attended the St Andrew’s MUN Conference over the Easter holidays in the Royal Marine Hotel. There were delegates from all over the world, including Spain, South America and China. Sarah and Sadhbh McGloughlin (6th Year) chaired committees at the High School MUN. Chairing is very different to participating as a delegate. The role of the Chair is to ensure that the conference conducts its business in a manner appropriate to the Rules of Procedure and the mandate, and the wishes of the conference. The last conference of the year took place in Wicklow EducateTogether Secondary. Gus Dolan was awarded Distinguished Delegate in the Historical Committee. The students involved in MUN this term were Laura Cullen, Sadhbh McGloughlin, Sarah Daniel, Lilly Urell, Gus Dolan, Amy Roche, Isabella O’Connor, Hannah Nolan, Aisling Van Der Does and Matthew Burke.

Green Schools

Congratulations to all school community for achieving our recent An Taisce Green Schools flag for the theme of Global Citizenship and the Marine Environment. This is now our 7th flag over 15 years and involved St. Gerard’s students surveying beaches and participating in several beach clean-ups in the Wicklow / South Dublin area. As a result, the committee implemented many initiatives to raise awareness amongst the student body of the chronic problem of plastic pollution in our rivers, oceans and indeed in our food chain.

Active Schools Week

The Physical Education department ran a fun Active Schools Week in the second week of May. This dynamic programme featured daily games and activities spanning the entire school grounds. From spirited table tennis competitions to the ‘St. Gerard’s Mile’, students had ample chances to get moving and boost their daily step tally.

Oxford Schools Debates

By Charlie Geelon

On the 10th of March, I, alongside fellow Transition Year student Lucy Curran, got the incredible opportunity to participate in the Oxford World School Debates 2024. Over the course of the day, we competed in four rounds of debating. The motions covered a variety of different obscure topics, one example being “this house believes that parents should not teach children about their own conceptions of the afterlife”.

We were taken aback by the standard of the competition, with teams coming from across the globe solely to compete. However, we rose to the challenge, and over the four rounds we placed first, second and fourth twice. Unfortunately, we did not progress to the semi-finals of the competition. However, it was an incredible experience and we hope to continue to further our skills and compete to an even higher standard next year.

UCD Junior Debating - Charlie

Geelon

Lucy Curran and I were selected and were paired together for our first debate on the 4th of October 2023. Other teams included Leon Griffin Offord, Alisa Kosacheva, Isaac Leahy, Isobel Bownes and Zara Jarowski. The motion of our first debate was ‘This House would make all schools in Ireland co-educational’. It was a tough first debate but we ended up coming second, progressing us to the next round.

Our second debate took place on the 15th of November 2023.There was a large step up in standard from our previous debate. The motion of our debate was ‘That renewable energy sources should be prioritised over nuclear power’. At the time we weren’t given the results of the debate and we were both unsure if we qualified for the next round. Three days later we received the message that we had qualified for the next round of knockouts.

The next debate took place on the 21st of February 2024. At this point in the competition the level of debating is at a much higher standard. We came second out of the eight teams leading us on to the quarterfinals.

Sadly our UCD debating journey ended in the quarter-finals on the 6th of March 2024.The motion for the debate was ‘the narrative that responsibility for care provision rests with the family, rather than the state.’ Both sides had well thought out points but it just wasn’t our day. Overall, we both really took something out of this experience and we would recommend it to anyone thinking of participating next year.

Concern Debates - Lucy Curran

Throughout the year, six TY students; Charlie Geelon, Amber O’Donohoe, Isabel McKeagney, Micheal O Cuinn and Cuan Woods and I took part in the Concern Debate Competition. Each round of the competition required us to yield a team of four; one captain and three teammates. The fact that we had a panel of six debaters, with even more students who tried out but unfortunately were not successful, is amazing as it shows how involved TYs are in involving themselves in new areas of school life.

We faced three qualifying rounds, each on a unique motion. As captain I wrote both an opening speech, to introduce our team and our upcoming arguments, and a closing speech to sum up the debate. Each of my teammates wrote a speech containing compelling arguments in the hopes of convincing the judges of our side. The debates were completed and recorded over Zoom and then sent to adjudicators who deliberated before returning a verdict. We were successful throughout the first rounds in qualifying for the next stage of the competition. However, unfortunately, we were consequently knocked out in the following debate. Despite this, every student gained invaluable skills in persuasive speech writing, public speaking and constructing points around unique motions not normally encountered in other debating competitions, which made the experience all the more interesting. Although we were unfortunate to not progress any further in the competition, the Concern Debates were nonetheless a great experience that every participant learned a huge amount from.

Gillian Lynch Memorial Debates

This is the sixth year of the “Gillian Lynch Junior Debating Competition” and the standard was again of the highest calibre. 24 students participated in the competition from 1st and 2nd year with the final being in The New Wing Auditorium on the 20 of May.

In what was a hotly contested debate, the team of Leon Griffin Offord and Rosamund Finnegan Quirke overcame the very combative and capable Percy Moore and Nathan Bownes. Leon and Rozzie won the debate, arguing that the Irish language should no longer be compulsory in Irish Schools.

Many thanks to Mr Wall and Ms Eastwood for all the time and effort they have put into running this competition.

In the last week of April six students prepared to take part in the final of the Luca Gheta Memorial Debate. In front of a large audience of students a team of Charlotte Finnegan Quirke, Isabella Stewart, Lucy Curran proposed the motion: ‘War shall not be declared and the State shall not participate in any war save with the assent of Dáil Éireann’. This motion surrounding Article 28.3.1 of Bunreacht na hÉireann was opposed by the team of Eva Harbourne, Tim Langan, Charlie Geelon. Both sides had researched well and presented their arguments with clarity and vigour but when it came to the judging process, the opposition team was deemed to be the winner. Well done to all those who participated in this valuable experience.

Valedictorians Gold Medal Winners James O’Dowd and Leah Hogan

Laurence McCabe Cup for Academic Excellence

Noah Trane, Emily Harty

6th Year Prize Winners

Luca Gheta Memorial Debating Competition

School Library Book Club

The library has been a hive of activity since Christmas. In January, the library hosted a First Year Poetry Competition. Ms Stapleton presented book vouchers to the winners; Sophie Ava Burton Diamond, Mylo Pust and Jack Holohan. In February we had a fun spot prize event to thank our library monitors for all their hard work. Ms. Nic Cana and Mr.Reidy were on hand to present spot prizes. March saw a book club special based around the theme of “Fantasy”. A fun quiz was fuelled by copious amounts of treats and goodies…again thank you to Ms Fanning and Mr Stanley for joining in the fun. After Easter, all of our second-year students attended a Creative Writing Workshop with author Denise Deegan. It was a most enjoyable morning with plenty of good advice and inspiration offered by Denise. A huge thanks goes to our library monitors who give up their lunch break to facilitate the school community, to our TY library team who keep the shelves in pristine condition and, of course, to our library ambassadors (Ethna Vondrys, Sadhbh McGloughlin, Emily Harty, Ruby Geelon and Emma Heffernan) who passed the torch on to the monitors.

(Maurice Flynn Cup) and Peter Cronin Cup at the Feis Ceoil. Th students and is the most important junior vocal competition at the

Literary Magazine Team

Drama Festival

Literary Magazine Team

Feis Ceoil Winner

Congratulations to 6th Year Charlotte Finnegan Quirke who was thrilled to win the O’Chuilleanain Cup at the Feis Ceoil. This competition is open to all second and thirdlevel students and is the most important junior vocal competition at the Feis Ceoil. Charlotte was also the winner of the Newpark Music Festival and a finalist at the Arklow Music Festival.Well done Charlotte..

Robyn Nowlan, Isabella Wilkinson, Aonghus Dungan, Gus Dolan, Trudy Frater, Kate Loughran Amy Roche, Jack Coleman, Kate Kinsella, Tim Langan, Eleanore Bourke, Isabella O’Connor, Katie Fenton

This year saw the return of the the approximately 70 students from n de performances The Junior, Inte roup under the direction of Ms Soph join done to everyone who took par

Summer Concert 2023

Congratulations to all of the stude

St. Gerard’s

Drama Festival

This year saw the return of the St. Gerard’s Drama Festival, the first since 2019. At the start of May approximately 70 students from the Senior School took part in delivering a repertoire of four drama performances. The Junior, Intermediate and Senior Drama groups braved the stage of the Junior School Hall under the direction of Ms. Sophie Keogh. A large audience joined to support these fabulous productions. Well done to everyone who took part.

Junk Kouture

Interview of James McCann By Hannah Magee

How did you learn about Junk Kouture?

Junk Kouture is something that I’ve always known about since I was really young, so since then I’ve always had an interest in it and I knew I wanted to get involved in it

What was the inspiration behind your design?

The inspiration for the look came from designers such as Harris Reed, and Paco Rabanne also taking from chain mail and Simone Rocha’s draping. I then drew up the design and I started collecting the materials like old road signs, bottle caps from bars around my area and fishing line.

What was the meaning behind the design?

The design symbolises the metaphorical shell or defence that people create to shield their innermost vulnerabilities, fears, or insecurities.

How did you gather your material for the outfit?

I was very lucky to have easy access to these resources, my dad was able to get me road signs from his work. For the bottle caps, I had to go to eight pubs everyday and ask for the bottle caps. They were actually really hard to get because the pubs regularly threw them away. I then drilled all the holes in them, spray painted them and weaved them through.

Creating & Designing a Spanish Book

This year in Spanish class we got the opportunity to create a book in Spanish. To start off, we picked an important person from our lives like a friend or family member. I worked on mine with one of my best friends. Secondly, we wrote about said person, describing them with the Spanish vocabulary we had learned. After finishing that with the help of Ms Gámiz, we drew a picture of our person. This part was my favourite as we got to draw, colour and talk! Then we added our finishing touches, combined both the drawing and writing and sent the book to be crafted. Finally, a few weeks later, we got the books. It was so interesting to see everyone’s work coming together and representing our class in one book. To celebrate this moment, we took a class photo, proudly holding up our books!

By Elif Bostanci

Madrid Trip

This year students who are in 2nd year, and learning Spanish, got to go on a 3-day trip to the city of Madrid. I am so grateful to the teachers and school who organised this trip where we had so much fun and got to try loads of new experiences. I think all the students can agree that the highlight of the trip was visiting Parque Warner. Parque Warner is a massive theme park with roller coasters found nowhere else in Europe. On the second day, the group went on a guided tour of the city where we walked around the Royal Palace of Madrid, Puerta del Sol, Gran Via (the main street of Madrid) and so much more. We had such a great time seeing all the sights of Madrid and shopping in one of the biggest Primarks in the world, as well as loads of shops that aren’t found in Ireland. We also got to taste traditional Spanish dishes in a tapas restaurant for lunch. Other activities included a visit to Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, bowling and a guided tour of the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas. Overall, the trip was one we will never forget. We all had an amazing time learning about Spanish culture, visiting interesting places and having the best time with our friends. We are all very thankful to the organisers as well as everyone who made this trip so meaningful and enjoyable. I know we all can’t wait for another trip!

By Nina Boydell

Summer Concert 2023

Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the Summer Concert in May. Almost 20% of all students in the school participated on stage in the Summer Concert. This certainly was as enjoyable and excellent a Summer Concert as we have ever hosted. The talent on stage and their confidence and abilities were simply astounding from First to Sixth Year. Thank you to Jackie, Diane and Oisin for their preparation and accompaniment of the students, and sincere thanks to Jackie for producing and directing the Summer Concert.

Difference Day

Instead of going to school as usual, the TYs students spent the day at Camphill Community Centre, Thomastown. Camphill Communities of Ireland is part of an international movement working with people with intellectual disabilities and other kinds of special needs. Originally created by war refugees in Scotland almost 70 years ago, Camphill has over 100 communities in 20 countries. Rather than going to school normally, the TYs helped to renovate the herb garden and build a seating and barbecue area. The TYs volunteered to help for the day and it was great to see how committed everyone was to the task at hand. Most of the work involved digging up weeds from the flower beds and adding new soil, creating new gravel paths, and building a seating area for a new barbecue that we also had to make. The TYs left the school at 7:45 in the morning and returned at 6:00 in the afternoon, having spent the whole day hard at work. Although it was a challenging task, the Transition Year students really showed their dedication to the cause and tried their best to help renovate the area to make it an overall better experience for the residents of the Camphill Community. Despite the fact that they had to get up very early in the morning and work through the cold weather, the TYs gave it their all and it was all worthwhile knowing that all of the effort spent is going to a good cause helping those with intellectual disabilities and special needs. This was a super experience for us and really built on the relationships developed since the musical. It was a really fulfilling day. Thanks to Denis O’ Reilly and his team for facilitating this.

By Cuan Woods

Killary Adventure Centre Activity Week

On 19th February, as we came back to school with refreshed minds after finishing the musical and the midterm, the TYs were ready to start a new journey to Killary Outdoor Adventure Centre.

We always get told that TY is the year that brings us all together the most but it hadn’t really felt that much different up until we approached the end of the musical. In my opinion, Killary is the place where it all changed and we really united. Since we had various activities each day in our assigned groups, we would always interact and put energy towards a common goal and each evening tell each other about our day’s adventures. When we were completing the Killary Challenge, it took quite a bit of brainstorming and teamwork to succeed in the task. At the end of the day, we all did our best to collaborate and become a team. This really came out in the treasure quest during the evening time where, as a group, we earned the resources for each other so people would be able to solve the mystery. This shows how well the students bonded in such a short period of time. It’s wonderful how even without realising it, you start getting closer with people you barely knew before this, even if you did the musical with them or you were in the same form. I hope this connection can be kept for the rest of the school years.

In general, Killary was all to do with leaving your comfort zone and trying out new things without the feeling of being judged by others since everyone is going through the exact same thing as you. This challenge was most evident during the “Turf Challenge” which most of the students surprisingly enjoyed. We all had a great time, whether it was overcoming some of our fears like heights, while completing “High Ropes” or the “Turf Challenge” socialising and sharing our experiences with each other. I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude to Ms Roy (who organised the adventure), Ms Ní Mhairtín, Mr Boland, Mr Wall, Ms Ní Fhéinneadha and Billy for the incredible adventure we all had. From exploring new places to sharing laughter and creating lasting memories, this trip has truly been a once-ina-lifetime experience. It’s amazing how being disconnected from our phones brought us closer together and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment. I will forever cherish the friendships forged and the lessons learned during this unforgettable journey.

By Daria Bokovenko

TY MUSICAL

This year our Transition Year students performed the celebrated musical, Les Misérables. This production took place over the course of four days with seven shows produced from the 5th to the 8th of February. Seven performances in four days is a new record for our school but we all rose to the challenge and every show was a huge success.

Behind the scenes there was a huge amount of work put in. Hours upon hours of rehearsals, learning lines, costume fittings, practising dances and performing songs culminated in our opening night which took place on the 5th of February. Although it was the first time that the TY students performed in front of an audience, everyone was amazed by the overall performance and talent that was produced over such a short period of time! All students gave it their all, and everyone lived up to the high bar that has been set with each successive TY group.

Although all students performed exceptionally well, there were definitely some who stood out and managed to completely immerse themselves in their character. Valjean, who was played by Matthew Fitzpatrick, and Javert, who was played by Sam Fennelly, were completely believable as their characters giving every show 100% effort. Their performances resulted in a standing ovation after each of their incredible solos. Shane Kyne and Isabelle Lynch put in incredible performances as the Thenadiers and managed to have the audience in stitches! Our TY students are a very talented group and their singing, acting and dancing talents were certainly showcased throughout the production run. From those assisting backstage, to backing dancers and leading roles- the show was simply an outstanding success.

There was incredible light and sound production throughout the musical, thanks to the professional band and all the people working on set. The sound and light effects really stood out during the barricade scenes.

The TY Musical would not be possible without the unparalleled hard work and talent of Ms. Jackie Olohan our Musical Director and Ms. Rosin Currid our Director of Choreography. All of the TY students are full of gratitude for all of the work they put in to make sure that the show did indeed go on! The experience from start to finish is one that we will never forget.

By Ava Browne

Business Trip to Paris

By Hannah Magee

I got the amazing opportunity to go on an international trip to Paris, with thirty-eight other TY students. Ms Scallan had been organising this trip for years and she was finally able to make it happen so I was very excited when my name was chosen out of the hat. I don’t know what to expect from the business conference but I did feel curious as to what it was about. We arrived at the airport early in the morning on Saturday and I was functioning on pure adrenaline. I tried to be prepared because I hate security in airports, and I also did not want to lose my passport or any important belongings. After my flight I was very tired but we immediately went on a bus tour around Paris.

Paris is a beautiful city and even though I had seen the architecture before, it still blew me away by how gorgeous it is. We saw famous buildings such as Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Palace and the Eiffel Tower. We ventured out in the big city by ourselves to explore and eat Parisian food. We then went up the Montparnasse Tower in Central Paris and I was very proud of myself for staying at the top the entire time because I am terrified of heights. I had achieved something I never thought I would do that day, and the views were incredible!

We spent two days in Disneyland. On the first day, I was a little tired but that didn’t stop me from having a blast doing the rides. I don’t normally do intense rides, but the first ride I did was a ride with a 360° loop and I wasn’t prepared for it; however, it did give me adrenaline for the rest of the day.

I then went onto doing the most intensive rides in the park, such as the Tower of Terror and the Avengers ride. They were all really fun, but I don’t think I’ll do them again for a while.

We had the conference during day two of Disneyland. The conference was really good and very interesting. It was an eye opener for me because the panel were all inspiring and intriguing to listen to. My favourite entrepreneur was Louis Barnette. He began his chocolate career when he was twelve and he has been successful ever since. His life story was incredible and very moving, no wonder he had the determination to create such a unique and practical form of chocolate. I also listened to two other entrepreneurs talk and they both gave advice to young people who want to be future entrepreneurs. On the last day in Paris, we didn’t do much. We went to the Stade de France and a shopping centre before heading to the airport.

As a group,we would like to thank Ms Scallan, Ms Broe, Mr Reidy, Danny, and Ms Fair collectively for taking the time to go around with us and make an effort to keep us all in line. They truly made the trip more enjoyable and because of this, we all created memories that will last a lifetime!

MPS and VEDS Awareness Day

On the tenth of May, we held a blue-themed non-uniform day in aid of MPS II and VEDS. These two causes were specifically chosen as two fifth-year students have been diagnosed with these debilitating conditions. It has been very distressing for them that little to no research or fundraising has been done due to the rareness of their conditions. So, they arranged this “Blue Day” to help raise awareness with talks from Tim Langan and to raise money for the foundations that research into further treatment and hopefully, one day soon, a cure. One of the main goals of this event was to bring to the attention of the students the difficulties that some people in the world around us face. All while we live our lives completely unaware of the challenges tackled by these hidden heroes daily. Overall, the day was a resounding success with over 3000 euros being raised by the students. The best thing about the whole day was how evident the theme was. Wherever you looked, there were people dressed in blue and it made you realise the power, unity and kindness of the St. Gerard’s community to help those in need. It was a beautiful and extraordinary day for the school and most importantly, it was a tremendous success for these two brave students.

Seachtain na Gaeilge

We had plenty of fun at the Seó Bóthar. This is a travelling road show organised by Conradh na Gaeilge. The show travels to various schools throughout the country. The presenters explain and highlight the role of the Irish language in a modern day European context . Bhain daltaí na hIdirbhliana an-taitneamh as. D’fhoghlaim siad faoi thabhacht ár dteanga agus ár n-oidhreacht.D’fhoghlaim siad freisin faoi na postanna éagsúla atá ar fáil. Beatha teanga í a labhairt. We also had spórt agus spraoi at our Tráth na gCeist quiz. It is an annual event where students test their knowledge about spórt, ceol, stair agus tíreolaíocht. Bhí dianchoimhlint agus géar iomaíocht le feiceáil. Mol an Óige agus tiocfaidh sí. The fifth years enjoyed some céilí dancing and mastered the basic steps. Many students have fond memories of their days in the Gaeltacht. Indeed many of our international students will be going home well able to do the Siege of Ennis and the Walls of Limerick. Some of the younger students enjoyed the Tóraíocht Taisce (treasure hunt) on the school grounds. It involved a lot of searching and eachtraíocht, looking for various clues dotted around the school grounds.

Catholic Schools Week

of searching and eachtraíocht looking for various clues

Catholic Schools Week in St Gerard’s was a vibrant celebration of faith, education, and service to the community. Throughout the week, students, teachers, and clergy came together to participate in various activities aimed at embodying the values of compassion, solidarity, and social justice. One of the focal points of the week was community service, with students engaging in a range of workshops looking at ways to support those in need. St Gerard’s, as a Catholic school, wants to demonstrate its commitment to serving others and making a positive difference in society.

Tráth

na gCeist

In line with the theme of inclusivity and support for marginalised communities, Catholic Schools Week 2024 also saw a concerted effort to learn about the work done by those who support people with intellectual disabilities. Mr Peter Shields from L’Arche explained how, through interactions, shared experiences, and mutual respect, we can gain valuable insight into the unique talents and contributions of individuals with intellectual disabilities, promoting a culture of inclusivity and empathy within the wider community.

On March 6th, Benji Billington, Patrick Chen and Chris gCeist in the Lexicon library, in Dun Laoghaire, for Sea they narrowly missed out to Coláiste Eoin. Maith sibh a

Moreover, Catholic Schools Week provided an opportunity for the school community to be made aware of human trafficking, a pressing global issue. Students attended a talk from two members of APT Ireland, an organisation working to combat human trafficking and support survivors. Ms Lynda Kelly and Sr Cora Richardson of APT not only helped to shine a light on this oftenhidden crime but also underscored the importance of standing in solidarity with the most vulnerable members of society. As part of the week’s activities, a young priest, inspired by his faith and commitment to social justice, gave us a fascinating insight into his role as a young priest. Fr David Vard led discussions on the Church’s role in addressing social justice issues and explained his own decision to join the priesthood and serve others in his community. Ultimately, we hope that Catholic Schools Week 2024 helped inspire students to become advocates for change in their communities and beyond.

Tráth na gCeist

On March 6th, Benji Billington, Patrick Chen and Chris Parks represented the school at the DLR Tráth na gCeist in the Lexicon library, in Dun Laoghaire, for Seachtain na Gaeilge. It was a very challenging quiz and they narrowly missed out to Coláiste Eoin. Maith sibh a bhuachaillí - beidh lá eile ag an bPaorach!

Retreats

Retreats are an integral part of our religious education programme. All students have the opportunity to participate in these enriching experiences, which are designed to foster spiritual growth and personal development.

For our Second Year and Transition Year (TY) students, the Mustard Seed team provides a comprehensive and enriching programme. This initiative aims to deepen their understanding of faith and spirituality through various activities and reflections.

Our Fifth Year group had the privilege of visiting Dromantine and, for many of them, participating in a pilgrimage to Medjugorje. The entire year group engaged in an overnight retreat at Dromantine, which was centered on personal prayer, meditation, and group reflection, allowing them to explore their spiritual journey in a supportive environment.

The Sixth Year students enjoyed a wonderful two-day retreat at Glenstal Abbey. This retreat offered them a

unique opportunity to reflect on their spiritual lives and prepare for the future as they approach the end of their secondary education. Coupled with this was the unique experience I’ve been able to interact with the monks as well as participate in their very early morning matins and prayer rituals.

The Third Year students benefited from a visit by An Tobar Nua, who facilitated an enriching experience at the school. This programme was tailored to their needs and provided a meaningful encounter with faith and spirituality.

Our First Year students were introduced to the concept of school retreats during their Christmas exams, with An Tobar Nua coming to the school to facilitate this experience. This early exposure to retreats helps to instill the importance of spiritual reflection and community from the beginning of their secondary education journey.

Medjugorje Pilgrimage

Embarking on a five-day pilgrimage from Ireland to Medjugorje, a sacred site known for its reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary, was a transformative journey for the group of teenagers and teachers. For many of the students, this pilgrimage marked their first encounter with such a profound religious experience, while for the teachers, it was an opportunity to guide and support the young pilgrims on their spiritual quest.

Throughout the pilgrimage, the group immersed themselves in prayer, reflection, and communal worship, drawing strength and inspiration from the sacred surroundings. Guided by the teachers, they participated in daily Masses, rosary recitations, and moments of quiet contemplation, deepening their connection to their faith and to each other. As they reached Medjugorje, a sense of awe and wonder swept over the group, as they beheld the holy sites and felt the presence of the divine in their midst. They climbed the rugged paths to Apparition Hill and prayed at the foot of the Cross Mountain, venerating the places where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.

TY GRADUATION NIGHT

TY GRADUATION NIGHT

SCT BBQ

Valedictory Evening

Valedictorians 2024 ~James O’Dowd and Leah Hogan

U16 AND U18 IRISH GIRLS HOCKEY

Congratulations to Eva Doyle (TY) – U18 Girls - and Juliette Duffy (3rd Yr) – U16 Girls on their selection on the Irish squads for their Easter Four Nations Competitions in the UK and Belgium respectively. Well done on your Irish representation.

GIRLS CROSS-COUNTRY/TRACK

The cross-country season started on the 26th of September at the Wicklow Schools Invitational cross-country relays. There was a strong representation from St. Gerard’s. The second year girls team ran strongly together and had teams finish in third, fourth and 5th position. The first year girls finished in 8th place.

Following on from this, the students took part in a 3000m trail run which took place in Avondale Forest Park. Several St.Gerard’s athletes finished in the top eight.

To start 2024 the school participated in the DCU secondary schools cross-country event on the 17th of January. This event took place at DCU sports ground; a very competitive event with an excellent result from the second year girls team finishing in the top five.

Isobel Lynch had a superb run at the East Leinster cross-country championships finishing in third place and qualifying for the Leinster cross-country championships. Unfortunately, she was unable to compete at this event due to illness.

As cross-country season came to a close the track and field season started. The East Leinster track and field championships took place in Santry on the 29th and first of May. The students represented the school exceptionally well at this competitive event with great results obtained. Olivia Poinset won a gold medal in the junior girls long jump, Isobel Lynch won a gold medal in the senior girls 1500m, Iseult Naidoo got a silver medal in the intermediate girls walk, Lily Moore won gold medal in the Intermediate girls Javelin, Ali Condren won a gold medal in the Junior girls Javelin. All of the girls have qualified for the Leinster Schools Championships which take place on the 15th and 18th of May. We wish them the very best of luck competing at these championships.

RUGBY

First Year Rugby

Following the Christmas break, our Firstyear boys embarked on a challenging encounter against Terenure College, resulting in narrow defeats for both the A and B teams.

However, in hindsight, this served as an invaluable learning experience, galvanising the squads’ efforts as they embarked on a winning streak until the end of the season. Among notable victories were resilient performances against Castlenock College in challenging conditions, a memorable bonding trip to CBC Cork, a thrilling home win against local rivals (and friends) Presentation College, Bray, and a triumphant return fixture against Terenure with a commanding 36-12 victory.

Additionally this season, Leinster Rugby organised three large blitzes, providing numerous competitive matches for schools across the region. A standout moment for our group was during the Final Blitz, where our “B” squad secured victory in all matches while maintaining a clean sheet, showcasing their remarkable defensive prowess.

Second Year Rugby

The Second-year rugby teams faced some challenges post-Christmas, enduring a series of narrow losses that could have easily demoralised the squad.

However, the reality paints a different picture. Both the coaches and players stepped up their efforts and performance noticeably in the remaining three months of the season. The squad demonstrated significant development in both defensive structure and attacking strategies.

Attendance often serves as a marker for team spirit and culture, and the Second-year group consistently showed high turnout for training and matches, with unwavering effort levels.

As this group continues their development in preparation for the JCT rugby next year, I’d like to share a quote from our most recent Saturday training session “Pitch session was good. Great attitude. Got a good feeling about this group.”

JCT Rugby

The post-Christmas run of games for our JCT group stands as a remarkable feat, showcasing the dedication and belief required for top-tier performance. The task at hand was daunting:

● One challenging friendly match at Donnybrook against the physically imposing Temple Carrig School.

● Securing three consecutive victories in the Father Godfrey Cup to advance to the final and qualify for the Cup.

● Embracing the Junior Cup experience, a distant dream just a year ago.

● Summon one more performance in final of the Father Godfrey Cup (notably two friendlies with two victories against Ballyclare High School and Wesley College along the way)

Our JCT team approached each game with heightened significance. They built momentum from a highscoring draw against Temple Carrig School, demonstrating resilience and determination.

They then went on to beat Skerries Community College, The High School and finally St. Fintan’s High school to reach the Father Godfrey Cup Final and secure a place in the Leinster Junior Cup. While silverware eluded this group, their achievement of reaching a Cup final and participating in the Junior Cup cannot be overstated. Credit is due to everyone involved, and the immense pride felt by all observers is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students.

TY Rugby

Following the Christmas break, the TY/Senior3 rugby team delved into competition mode, entering the TY/5th year League. Despite a challenging start with narrow losses against CBC Monkstown and St. Mary’s College, they rebounded with convincing victories over Newbridge College and Terenure College.

These results secured them an away quarter-final against Newbridge College, albeit against an older cohort than they had faced in the group stage. Despite a spirited performance, the match ended in defeat, concluding the team’s season.

The TY players’ transition into Senior development training, their dedication and achievements this year and at JCT level position many of them as strong contenders for starting positions in the upcoming season.

Senior Cup Team

With the start of the new year, the highlight of senior school rugby is always the Leinster Senior Schools Cup. This year, the entire school rallied behind the team in a display of unwavering support against CBC Monkstown. It was the first senior cup experience for a majority of the squad. Though the outcome wasn’t as hoped, the team’s effort and spirit never wavered. St Gerard’s led for much of the match but ultimately lost by a point.

Undeterred, the team shifted focus to the Leinster Schools Plate competition, dominating Wesley College in the quarter-final with Gerard’s scoring eight tries. The team was then paired up to face Kilkenny College for the fourth time this season, with three of those fixtures being away. Familiar with the challenges associated with the fixture, the team was spurred on by the great amount of travelling parent support. This encouragement helped them through a hardfought match where St. Gerard’s showed great discipline and execution, ultimately leading to a well-deserved victory as the team dominated in most areas of the match.

Their journey culminated in a historic victory over a powerful Clongowes Wood side in the final at Ollie Campbell Park. Notably, this was the first time St. Gerard’s had won this competition since 1981.

As the final whistle blows and the echoes of our hard-fought battles fade, I am overwhelmed with pride for this incredible team. Each player, with unwavering dedication and resilience, has left everything on the field. Through the highs and lows, we have forged an unbreakable bond, united by our passion for the game and our commitment to one another. The memories we’ve created, the lessons we’ve learned, and the strength we’ve found within ourselves will stay with us forever. This season has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the spirit of unity.

Thank you to the school, parents, and players for the journey, and for making this experience unforgettable.

Charl Malherbe

Senior 2

The highlight of the season undoubtedly was the intense quarterfinal match against Saint Michaels, where the team showcased their unwavering spirit and competitive edge. Despite a valiant effort, the team narrowly fell short, with a final score of 17-13. Nevertheless, the match was a display of the team’s resilience and determination, leaving an indelible mark on the season.

Throughout the season, the players exemplified dedication and discipline, diligently honing their skills through rigorous training sessions. The integration of training sessions with the Senior 1’s provided invaluable opportunities for growth and development, with several players earning their well-deserved chance to shine on the senior stage. Many of these players contributed significantly to the Senior Team’s journey, culminating in their involvement in the final of the Senior Plate.

In conclusion, the St. Gerard’s Senior 2 Rugby Team’s season was characterized by remarkable achievements, unforgettable matches, and substantial growth. The team’s journey, marked by victories, setbacks, and invaluable lessons, exemplifies the essence of sportsmanship, resilience, and camaraderie. As the season drew to a close, the team emerged stronger, more cohesive, and poised for future success.

Charl Malherbe

Equestrian

The 2023-2024 Equestrian Interschools season marked a triumphant journey for St. Gerard’s teams, uniting riders of all levels in pursuit of excellence and camaraderie. Starting strong at the Boswell Equestrian Interschools, sponsored by our school, our novice (85cm) and open (1m) teams seized top honours, setting the tone for a remarkable season. Subsequent competitions showcased our resilience, with another first-place finish for our novice squad, reinforcing our league lead.

Despite occasional constraints on participation, our team’s performance remained consistently impressive, securing placements in nine out of eleven competitions. This stellar record, including four wins, distinguished St. Gerards among 35 other schools with multiple victories.

Behind our success lies the unwavering dedication of our students, who diligently train outside school hours. Their commitment shone through in individual competitions, with Honor Mullion, Victoria Roche, and Nina Boydell representing St. Gerard’s admirably.

The season reached its climax at the Coilog Equestrian finals, where our novice team’s stellar performance earned them fourth place overall in the league standings. Gratitude extends to our coaches, organizers, and supportive parents for their invaluable contributions. With anticipation building for the next season, St. Gerard’s teams stand ready to embrace new challenges and triumphs on the equestrian circuit.

GOLF

This year’s Golfer of the Year competition was held on the magnificent East Course at Powerscourt Golf Club, featuring 30 pupils from first to fifth year. The competition was fiercely contested, going right down to the wire in both the boys’ and girls’ categories. Finn Jolly emerged victorious in the boys’ competition, while Emma Haugh claimed the top spot in the girls’ competition, earning the prestigious GOY awards. Additionally, congratulations to Diego Quiros for winning the Stableford competition on the day.

SENIOR GIRLS SOCCER BLITZ

This year, St. Gerard’s played host to an electrifying senior soccer blitz, drawing in five local schools: St. David’s, Loreto, Dalkey, Temple Carrig, and Cabinteely Community College. The action-packed tournament featured thrilling seven-a-side matches and proved to be a resounding success. While our team may not have clinched a spot in the top three, their spirit and determination left a lasting impression.

GIRLS’ CRICKET

This year, the girls have reignited the passion for girls’ cricket among our first-year students, laying the groundwork for an exciting future for the sport. We plan to expand the program over the next number of years. Despite a narrow loss in their debut match against Teresians, our first-year girls have displayed remarkable potential. As they geared up to take on Wesley College in their next league fixture, anticipation ran high with St. Gerard’s coming out on top with a 74 - 52 win. Unfortunately, the team failed to break out of their group stage as Wesley College beat them overall by just one run! The enthusiasm shown by the girls for cricket is truly inspiring, and we eagerly anticipate the growth of the sport in the seasons ahead.

BOYS’ CRICKET

This term proved to be another positive milestone for boys’ cricket in the school with three cricket teams competing in Leinster Schools Leagues. One most notable achievement was our first-year team qualifying out of their group and securing a quarterfinals spot. Despite a heartbreaking loss by just six runs in a nail-biting match, their performance was commendable. Our junior and senior boys’ teams also had an exceptional term, securing several well-deserved wins. Unfortunately, they did not progress out of their groups this season. Nonetheless, the sport continues to thrive, with a noticeable increase in participation compared to last year. We are growing stronger each year and are optimistic about adding a fourth boys’ team to compete next year.

HOCKEY

First Year A

The season began on a high note with an exciting 2-1 victory over The High School. Despite initial success, we faced challenges in synchronizing and advancing the ball in subsequent matches against Wesley College, Loreto, Dalkey, and Loreto, Foxrock. However, perseverance paid off with a convincing 6-1 win against Rathdown in our final eight-a-side match.

Transitioning to eleven-a-side post-Christmas, we focused on spatial awareness and fluid connections, highlighted in our match against Loreto, Kilkenny, despite a 0-2 loss. Our first Year Cup journey showed promise with wins over Temple Carrig (3-0) and St. Killian’s (5-0), but we narrowly lost to Mount Anville in the quarter-finals. The season concluded with an eleven-a-side blitz, resulting in victories against Loreto, Stephen’s Green and Newbridge College. Embracing a season of growth, we are poised to translate these lessons into next year’s minor hockey.

First Year B

The First Year B team, coached by Miss Nicole Cassidy, had a remarkable season. We started with a thrilling 1-0 win against The High School, followed by a close 2-2 draw with Rathdown. A hard-fought 2-1 victory over Loreto, Foxrock, under the leadership of captain Kaia Van Der Hoeven, showcased our determination. A standout moment was a 9-0 triumph over High School, demonstrating our growing skills. Throughout the season, we focused on fitness, especially through Monday mile runs, and improved our strength and conditioning. Special thanks to Miss Nicole Cassidy, our fitness coach Ms. Rosie Newton, and coaches Mr. Simon Pearson, Mr. Richard Couse, Mr. Niall Denehan, and Ms. Ella Malone for their guidance and support. We look forward to building on this season’s successes.

First Year C

The First Year C team, with stellar coaching from Ms. Nicole Cassidy, began with a commanding 4-0 victory over The High School. Following a series of 2-2 draws, including a tough match against Wesley College, we secured a 2-1 win against Loreto, Dalkey, showcasing our perseverance. Training emphasized speed and stick work, with Monday mile runs enhancing our fitness. We also focused on short corners and passing, vital for match success.

A heartfelt thanks to our coaches Ms. Nicole Cassidy, Mr. Simon Pearson, Mr. Niall Dehean, Mr. Richard Couse, Ms. Rosie Newton, and Ms. Fiona Fair, and to our teammates for their dedication. We eagerly anticipate continued improvement next season.

Minor 1

This year, the Minor A team experienced a season of growth and achievement. Despite a mixed start, our dedication paid off under the guidance of coach, Claire Byrne. Early league matches against Newbridge College and Mount Anville ended in draws, but our teamwork began to shine. A tough cup match against Loreto Beaufort went to 1v1s, where we narrowly lost, but it taught us valuable lessons.

Our training intensified, focusing on pressing and field setup, leading to more victories. We secured wins against Loreto, Foxrock and had a standout 2-0 victory in the Leinster School Girls Minor Plate Quarter-Final against Loreto College, St. Stephen’s Green. The Semi-final saw us triumph over The High School with a strong team performance.

The season climaxed with the final at Three Rock Rovers Hockey Club, where we faced Mount Sackville. A focused halftime talk from coach Byrne propelled us to a 2-0 win, earning us the plate. Huge thanks to coach Byrne and Ms. Nicole Cassidy for their dedication and support.

Minor 2

The Minor B team showcased determination and perseverance throughout the year. Despite winning only three matches and drawing one out of sixteen, we fought hard in every game. Our first victory came in late October against Loreto, Dalkey, demonstrating our growth. Subsequent wins against Kilkenny College and a draw with Alexandra College highlighted our progress.

Our final victory against High School capped off the season on a high note. We honed our skills in reverse sweeps, tackling, and short corners, all thanks to our dedicated coaches. Reflecting on the season, we realize it’s not just about wins and losses but the joy of playing, improving, and making friends.

A heartfelt thank you to our head coach, Ms. Claire Byrne, and the entire coaching staff for their time, patience, and guidance. They have been instrumental in shaping us into the team we are today.

Minor 3

The Minor 3 team evolved into a cohesive and determined unit this year. Our training focused on new skills and strategies, from widening the pitch to effective tackling. Despite some tough matches, we never gave up, applying our drills and strategies to secure wins.

A memorable match against Holy Faith, Clontarf tested our resolve under challenging weather, but a motivational talk from our coaches spurred us to a 4-2 victory. Another tough game against Wesley College saw us edge out a 1-0 win, reflecting our progress. Post-match reviews helped us continuously improve, guided by our dedicated coaches. We extend our gratitude to Ms. Nicole Cassidy, Ms. Claire Byrne, Ms. Lena Neill, and Mr. Johnny Hearty for their unwavering support and invaluable lessons.

Junior 1

Our JCT hockey team kicked off the pre-season in April, blending year groups and building friendships. After three months of rigorous training, we were ready for the season. The team had a fantastic start, winning five consecutive matches. Although our streak ended with a 3-1 loss to Holy Child, Killiney, we bounced back with a 6-0 victory over Newbridge College. In the cup, we secured a 2-0 win against St. Andrew’s College and a 6-0 win over Wilson’s Hospital, advancing to the quarter-finals. Despite our confidence, we faced a narrow 1-0 defeat to Teresians in the final minutes.

Determined to finish strong, we won the South Dublin League, dominating all four matches. A highlight was our 5-0 victory against Rathdown, showcasing our teamwork and hard work.

We extend our gratitude to our coach, Mr. Denham, for his dedication, and to Ms. Cara McConnell for pushing us in the gym. Special thanks to Ms. Nicole Cassidy and Mr. Tom Geraghty for their organization and support. Reflecting on the season, we’re proud of our progress and excited for the future as we transition to the SCT level. This memorable season has been a testament to our team’s dedication and perseverance.

Junior 2

ThThe Junior 2 hockey team had a stellar year, reaching the Junior 2 League semi-final. Early morning Saturday training paid off as we honed our skills, focusing on posting up, making leads, and mastering short corners. Memorable matches included our semi-final against Mount Anville, showcasing our progress and teamwork. Winning seven matches and drawing four out of fifteen, we demonstrated dedication and diligence. The camaraderie, thrill of scoring, and support from coach Ella Malone made this season unforgettable. We’re immensely grateful for her belief in our potential.

Junior 3

The Junior 3 team made significant strides this season, reaching the Junior 3 League quarterfinals. Despite a narrow loss to Temple Carrig, our progress was evident. Training focused on short corners, basic skills, and fitness, greatly enhancing our performance.

A big thank you to Coach Ella Malone for her positivity and guidance, and to Ms. Nicole Cassidy for organizing our matches. We appreciate all the support from our sports coaches and teammates.

Senior 1

Following the Christmas break, the Senior 1 hockey team turned their attention to the Leinster League and Leinster Plate. The team faced tough challenges, suffering losses to Kilkenny College and Mount Anville, which ended their hopes in the Leinster League.

Despite being out of league contention, the team had one more group match against Muckross. Fired up and determined, they aimed to spoil Muckross’s chances of advancing to the semi-finals. Muckross needed just one point to move forward, but our girls fought tenaciously, keeping the scoreline 0-0 through the first three quarters.

In a dramatic final minute, Muckross removed their keeper in a desperate bid for a win. Capitalizing on this, Eabha Cunningham intercepted a hit out, skillfully dribbled past two defenders, and scored a sensational goal. With less than two minutes left, the team held firm, securing a memorable victory.

The following week featured a friendly match against Friends School Lisburn, providing valuable preparation for the upcoming plate match against Newbridge College. The match highlighted the team’s weak spots, which were diligently addressed in training.

Traveling to Newbridge College for the plate semi-final, the team’s nerves were palpable. Despite the away setting, they were well-prepared and emerged victorious with a 3-0 win, securing their spot in the final.

The team, guided by their dedicated coach Simon Pearson, intensified their training and held extra meetings to prepare for the final. The decisive match against St. Andrews College took place at Three Rock Rovers.

From the start, the team dominated, creating several scoring opportunities in the first quarter, but couldn’t find the back of the net. Quarters two and three saw a tight contest, with both sides playing their best. In the final quarter, it was the

defensive prowess of Katie Colman and the back line that kept the score level.

As the match ended 0-0, the dreaded 1v1 shootout loomed. Five players bravely stepped up, with Juliette Duffy impressing as the youngest member to take a shot. In a nerve-wracking sudden death, it was Charlotte Ballagh who clinched the victory, sealing the team’s triumph.

In what was an emotional rollercoaster of a season, the Senior 1 hockey team emerged victorious, capping off their campaign with a well-deserved win in the Leinster Plate.

Senior 2

The thrilling season began with intensive August training.

Senior 2

The Senior Twos had a season of growth, starting with a victory against Loreto, Dalkey. Despite early league losses, we used these setbacks to fuel our determination. Our perseverance culminated in a close match against Holy Child, Killiney and a final victory over Loreto, Dalkey.

Thanks to Ms. Cara McConnell for enhancing our fitness, Ms. Nicole Cassidy for smooth organization, and Mr. Richard Couse for his coaching and support. We’ve grown significantly as a team and look forward to the future.

Senior 3

The Senior 3 team had a season filled with learning and camaraderie. Training focused on basics and short corners, leading to some strong performances in the South Dublin league. Despite mixed results, we valued every success and celebrated every goal.

Our thanks go to Ms.Nicole Cassidy, Mr. Ricard Couse, Ms. Cara McConnell, and Mr. Deneham for their coaching and motivation. This season has been about more than just results; it’s been about enjoying the game and growing together as a team.

Senior 4

The Senior 4 hockey team’s season was defined by resilience and spirit. Despite challenging matches, the team showed determination and sportsmanship. Highlights included a thrilling 1-1 draw against Temple Carrig and a hard-fought victory against Holy Faith, Clontarf. The players’ unwavering positivity and dedication, even in tough times, exemplify true sportsmanship. Their journey this season has been inspiring, showcasing the values we cherish at St. Gerard’s. Here’s to a season of cherished memories and enduring friendships.

SAILING

Following the Christmas break, our sailing team returned to the waters to compete in the second round of the Shanahan Cup. Despite being placed in an exceptionally tough group, our young team showcased remarkable resilience and skill to successfully secure a spot in the quarter-finals, and secured more overall points. Unfortunately, the league organisers could not get a date for the final round, and the league was not concluded.

However, the experience gained did not go to waste, and the team went on to represent the school valiantly in the Leinster Schools Team Racing Championships, which resulted in a wildcard pick into the All-Ireland Championships.

The first Wednesday in May saw us host our annual Inter-schools Regatta in Greystones Sailing Club. It again proved to be a popular event with 29 boats on the water with fifty four pupils representing eight schools. Congratulations to Cian Swan and his crew, Chris Park in retaining the much coveted Jack Roy Trophy.

We are incredibly proud of all our sailors for their outstanding performance and unwavering commitment to sailing in the school, and we wish them all the very best of luck with their summer events and courses.

GIRLS TENNIS

This season, our tennis squads showcased remarkable strength with the participation of three senior teams, two junior teams, and two minor teams.

The journey began with our Senior A’s facing off against reigning champions Mount Anville in a riveting opening match; unfortunately, succumbing to defeat. However, they bounced back with a walkover victory against Alexandra College before securing a triumphant win against our very own Senior B team. Despite a valiant effort, they fell short in the semi-finals against Loreto, Dalkey. Meanwhile, our Senior B team fought hard but faced a setback against Loreto, Dalkey in the first round, earning a bye in the second round only to be bested by fellow squad members in the quarter-finals. The Senior C team encountered a tough start against Loreto, Balbriggan, followed by a bye in the second round, setting the stage for a narrow loss against Holy Child, Killiney in the quarter-finals.

On the junior front, our Junior A team demonstrated prowess by defeating Loreto, Bray in the opening round, earning a bye in the next round, and securing a spot in the quarter-finals against St. Andrew’s College. They then went on to win a thrilling semi-final showdown against Muckross Park, which led them to the finals against Mount Anville. Unfortunately, the girls lost but they put up an impressive fight.

Similarly, our Junior B team displayed remarkable skill, clinching victory against Muckross Park and battling through a nailbiting tiebreaker against Loreto, Foxrock to advance to the quarter-finals against The King’s Hospital. With eyes set on the semi-finals, the girls faced Sandford Park and with a clear 3 - 0 victory they were set for the finals. The finals took place on the 20th of May in Carrickmines Tennis Club and St. Gerard’s school came out victorious with captain Aya Salman leading her team to success.

In the minor leagues, our Minor A team faced a challenging draw against Loreto, Foxrock but emerged victorious, setting the stage for a quarter-final clash against Loreto, Beaufort. Despite facing adversity, our Minor B team showcased resilience, experiencing setbacks against Terenure College in the first round, but bouncing back with a win in the second round before ultimately being beaten by Loreto, Dalkey in the third round.

BOYS TENNIS

It is with immense pride that we can confirm that our Senior Boys’ Tennis Team won the prestigious Leinster Schools’ Division 2 section.

The team consisted of our Singles line up: 1.Christopher Park, 2. Jack O’Brien, 3. Rodrigo Gonzalez Garcia Doubles pairings:1. Kristoffer Leddy & Robin Brooksbank-Pearcy, 2.Daniel O’Brien & Conor Harty Super Subs: Matthew Leonard and Benji Billington.

We started the season off with a 4-1 win at home to Kings Hospital. The next match was an away fixture to Gonzaga College. This proved to be an easy encounter with a 5-0 victory. We were now relishing what was going to be a huge challenge away to Blackrock 2nd. This was an enthralling match lasting over three hours on court and we managed to beat them 3-2 in a pulsating match.

We now topped the group and qualified for the Semi-Final where we met St. Fintan’s High School and we beat this very strong team 4-1. This qualified us for the final where it would be played at Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club, the home of Irish Tennis.

St Mary’s were our opponents in the final and on paper this would be a very competitive match. It was going to be a challenging encounter as St. Mary’s had beaten us last year very comprehensively in the Junior 2 final. However, on the day we all raised our game and we produced a performance that any keen tennis supporter would admire. We learned our lessons from the previous year and we quickly got on top in this fixture. Christopher

Park and Rodrigo Gonzalez Garcia gave us a 2-0 lead before the doubles pairing of Kristoffer Leddy and Robin Brooksbank- Pearcy sealed the victory and the trophy was ours! This is a fantastic achievement and I would like to thank Mr. Kirk, Mr. Drummy & Mr. Jolly for all their support, organisation and advice during this very exciting campaign.

The school also fielded three more teams in the Leinster Teams competition. Two at Junior Level and one at Minor Level.

The Minor Boys Team achieved two excellent wins but unfortunately one loss placed them 2nd in their group.

The Junior A Boys’ Team faced a challenging group and they won two hard fought victories. However, they lost two very close matches 3-2, matches that could easily have swung in their favour.

The Junior B Boys’ Team encountered three tough opponents but displayed commendable effort and competitive spirit throughout.

We finished off the School Tennis Calendar with our successful Family Tennis event. Can you believe, it was the 40th Anniversary of this popular event and a number of our previous winners were on show in this year’s competition. This year saw a record number of families participating making it a very enjoyable and memorable occasion for all involved. Congratulations to Robin & Ethan Brooksbank-Pearcy who won against Mr. Tom Breslin & Patrick Breslin in a very exciting match.

The future looks bright for our tennis community and we look forward to more thrilling encounters on the tennis courts next year!

SENIOR BOYS SOCCER TEAM

The senior boys soccer team had a highly successful year, marked by impressive performances in various competitions. They reached the quarter-finals in all tournaments they participated in, though they faced a setback in the Leinster Shield quarter-final. This loss motivated Conor O’Donnell’s team to excel in their subsequent matches, winning both their semi-final fixtures. Their victories secured them well-deserved spots in the finals of both the Joe McGrath Memorial Trophy and the Metropolitan League Division 3.

The team celebrated a victory in the Joe McGrath Memorial Trophy final, but only after ten minutes of extra time, and a gripping penalty shoot-out. However, despite a spirited and thrilling contest in the Metropolitan League Division 3 final, they fell short, ending the season with a mixed but commendable record. The league final was an exciting match, played in great spirit and sportsmanship between the two competing schools.