A day to remember as Athlone GAA All Stars visit Croke Park
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Cíosa and Doireann O’Brien practising their skills at Croke Park.Image 2 of 6
Jack (left) gets the thrill of lifting a trophy at Croke Park alongside Gerry Gallagher.Image 3 of 6
Athlone GAA All Stars players, coaches and family members pictured during their visit to Croke Park.Image 4 of 6
Truman McMillan in action at Croke Park recently.Image 5 of 6
Jake Carr having fun on the Croke Park pitch.Image 6 of 6
Niall Fox in Croke Park as part of the Athlone GAA All Stars group.See more photos by scrolling right or left above
It was an occasion to remember for the Athlone GAA All Stars when they visited Croke Park for a ‘GAA 4 All’ event last month.
Hosted by Leinster GAA, the initiative encourages children with autism, or other additional needs, to participate in GAA with their local clubs, and the Athlone GAA All Stars is now one year into its development.
Athlone GAA All Star players, with their families and club coaches, were warmly welcomed to the Hogan Stand upon their arrival at GAA headquarters. From there, the group was treated to a special Player Experience Tour, during which they had the opportunity to visit the iconic dressing rooms and warm-up areas before stepping out onto the legendary pitch and exploring the surrounding grandstands.
Situated just below Hill 16, the group then enjoyed a fun-filled coaching session led by experienced Leinster GAA coaches. The children had the chance to kick points, play rounders, and take part in a variety of exciting games and activities.
To complete the day, the children had the unforgettable experience of walking up the steps of the Hogan Stand, living out the dream of lifting a trophy in front of proud family members and friends.
The occasion marked a brilliant chapter in the short history of the Athlone GAA All Star group with club chairperson Fiachra McLoughlin expressing a special word of thanks to Darren Magee for making the event possible and John O’Brien who is the Athlone GAA All-Stars lead co-ordinator.
Fiachra also thanked all the coaches “who gave their time and support”, and “most importantly, the players and their families for representing the club with pride on such a fantastic occasion”.