Pitch in for the pitch

FASHION Show fundraiser for Aughadreena NS

A Cavan school is set to throw and array of fundraisers to fund their highly anticipated astro-turf multi-use facility at the school.

From fashion shows to bake sales and everything in between, Aughadreena National School is on a mission to get their students the all weather pitch they deserve.

“Since the building of the school on its present site along the Dublin Road in 1962, a field adjacent to the school has been used for children to play, train for sporting events and have PE lessons,” says Deputy Principal, Eillish Smith.

“However, in sporting terms, Aughadreena was most famously known for its sloping pitch! Many past pupils who attended the school still recall the many ‘unfair’ matches they lost as their team drew the short straw to play ‘up the hill’. They trudged home with shoes and clothes covered in mud from a game on ‘the pitch’."

Despite the lack of facilities, the school has a proud history of success in developing young sporting talent in GAA, soccer, camogie, rounders and athletics.

In 2011, the pitch was finally levelled and drainage put in.

“Unfortunately, the grass pitch still presents problems, as it is wet and unplayable for much of the school year. It’s time to give the children what they deserve – an all-weather playing surface which can be used all year round,” said Ms Smith.

The school has already been awarded a Clár grant of €50,000 by the Department of Rural and Community Development towards the provision of an Astro-turf multi-use facility to replace the grass area.

“While this is a welcome boost, there is a shortfall of approximately €70,000 to be raised. The Board of Management, Pitch Development Committee and Parent’s Association, staff and children have all put their shoulders to the wheel to ensure that the project will be successful and that all children in the school will have access to a pitch all year round on which they can play a range of games and activities, while also having a space available to develop their sporting skills.”

A fashion show will be the first of many fundraisers hosted by the school.

Taking place in the Lavey Inn tonight (Thursday), March 30, Eillish Smith says: “A great night out is promised, with local talent on the catwalk and spot prizes galore on the night.

“Businesses or individuals are invited to sponsor a model or donate a spot prize/voucher for the draw. Get in quickly to ensure that your company gets a shout out on the night and is promoted across social media.” The fashion show will feature CICO Sportswear, DT One, Karlos Conlon Menswear, Paco, Sally West, Simply Style by Fi, Sin Eile Boutique and the Purple Orange Boutique.

Tickets for the fashion show cost €20 and are on sale from participating stores, members of the Parents Association or by phoning the school on 049-4330549.

Anyone who cannot attend the fashion show can support through the school’s GoFundMe appeal. https://www.gofundme.com/f/aughadreena-astro-pitch

Alternatively, you can donate directly to the school bank account: PTSB – IBAN IE71IPBS99066827983190 – Aughadreena NS.

“Please help make dreams come true and ‘pitch in for the pitch,” urges Ms Smith.