Good performance by Westmeath Schools against Kilkenny

Westmeath GAA Coaching and Games notes

Westmeath Schools travelled to Johnstown last Saturday morning to take on Kilkenny Schools in the Leinster PPS second year competition. Players from all schools outside of A grade hurling were eligible for this and the Westmeath team was made up of players on the U15 panel. The lads from the Lake County equipped themselves well in the cold weather conditions but ended up losing out by 2-8 to 1-7. The team will take on Offaly Schools in the next round of the competition, with the date set to be confirmed.

Hurling Development Squads

Our U14 hurlers travelled to the Faithful Fields last Saturday morning to take on Offaly in two games. In all, 48 young hurlers made their bow in the maroon and white across both games, getting to show work they have put in on and off the pitch. The U16 hurlers trained in Ringtown, continuing their preparation for the Celtic Challenge, which starts on Saturday 4th April. Joey Cleary provided an hour of athletic development with the squad, followed by a hurling session. Thanks to Ringtown for the use of their facility and to Joey for the athletic development session.

Football Development Squads

Each of the football development squads trained in TUS Athlone last Saturday morning, making use of the Multipurpose Hall and astroturf to counter the inclement weather conditions. An hour of athletic development work in the hall with John Gilligan was followed by an hour of football on the astroturf. Thanks to John for his session with all three squads and to TUS for their use of facilities.

Award 1 Coaching Course

An award 1 coaching course for both football and hurling coaches starts this week, with an online webinar on Monday followed by a practical session for football coaches on Thursday evening in Marist College Athlone. In total, coaches will do three online sessions and four practical sessions over six weeks to gain their qualification.