Cumann na mbunscol

Bunscoil an Dúin honour former colleagues.

Cumann na mBunscol an Dúin paid tribute to two of their most renowned stalwarts over the past twenty years at the recent meeting in Castlewellan. The sterling work of Pat Watterson, former Cathaoirleach and hurling coach , and Michael Hanly, football coach and past Runai, was acknowledged by the Coiste. As Cathaoirleach, Pat Watterson did much to encourage local schools to participate in all the activities of the organisation and he will be particularly remembered for his efforts in the promotion of hurling and camogie during his terms of office. Pat initiated a programme of coaching of these games in the primary schools while also supplying the scarce resources needed to affect this programme. Since his retirement from teaching sixteen years ago, Michael Hanly has increased his involvement in the development of gaelic games and culture throughout the primary schools of county Down. Michael was the original football coach visiting schools many of which had no previous history of gaelic culture and so popular were his activities that he was unable to satisfy the demand for his services. The success of his coaching programme prompted the Down county board to appoint full time coaches to undertake this role. Now a team of three coaches continue the excellent work initiated by him. When he finished in his coaching role, Michael readily accepted the post of Runai for Cumann na mBunscol and under his stewardship the association went from strength to strength. His monthly Nuacht was welcomed by all those participating in our national games at primary level and a great way of informing schools of planned activities. Michael's strict adherence to a programme of events ensured that competitions were well organised and completed to the necessary schedule. Both Michael and Pat fell victims to the GAA policy for the rotation of office bearers throughout the organisation but their expertise has not been entirely lost as they have willingly become consultants to their replacements. Mr Collie Bell present Cathaoirleach Cumann na mBunscol an Dúin thanked both men for their professional approach over the years and the legacy of good practice left for others to follow. He presented them with figurines, one depicting hurlers for Pat Watterson while Michael Hanly received one with a gaelic football motif. Al those present warmly applauded their former colleagues.