BOHEMIAN FC soccer stars Shane Supple and Oscar Brennan paid a visit to Our Lady Immaculate SNS to give the young pupils a lesson that will live long in their memories.
The Bohs players were donating their time to the Darndale school under the auspices of the Bohemian Foundation, the club’s independent non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the health and well-being of North Dublin communities.
The Foundation’s work is probably better known in areas closer to Dalymount Park but Bohs fan, Cllr Larry O’Toole (SF), was on hand to see the club reaching out to his local community.
Teacher Shane Loftus said Our Lady Immaculate Senior National School was delighted to welcome Foundation President, Thomas Hynes, and Cllr O’Toole to the school but admitted the players stole the show on the day.
“The highlight of the visit was the coaching sessions carried out by Shane Supple and Oscar Brennan,” he said.
“Shane gave a master class in goalkeeping as children tried one after the other to beat the Bohs number one but none could – not even the teachers!
“Oscar led a series of ball control and passing drills. Afterwards they took time to oversee a couple of very competitive 7-a-side games, giving advice and praise all through.
“The boys and girls were really appreciative of the time given and the good humour shown by Shane and Oscar throughout the two training sessions.
“They really enjoyed trying to beat Shane in the goals and watching as teacher, Mr Carthy, failed to do so.
“The drills and the game showed the children what is needed to be a top flight player in the League of Ireland. To end each session, Foundation President Thomas Hynes gifted the children a Bohemians ball each.”
School Principal Derry Amphlett said he was delighted to be associated with the Foundation and welcomed the input of the club in the school.
“We look forward to this continuing into the future.”
The school also thanked Cllr O’Toole for co-ordinating the day.