Sports programme in Pairc na gCon Wexford helps children get active 

Up to 30 children, aged 5 to 15 years, from Clúid Housing’s Pairc na gCon scheme in Enniscorthy came together in a month-long initiative to take part in the FEAST sports programme introducing them to GAA sports.

The idea for the programme came from the newly formed Enniscorthy Community Inter Agency Team with Wexford County Council’s Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme, Sports Active Wexford, Wexford Local Development and Clúid Housing working together with the GAA. It was organised by Ray Harris, Wexford GAA Games Development Manager, and Garret Kavanagh from Rapparees/Starlights GAA Club.

Anna Flynn, Sports Inclusion Disability Officer with Sports Active Wexford, described having an integration programme like this as wonderful for children to experience – especially if they are apprehensive about trying a new sport or joining a new club.

The aim of this programme was to introduce sports into local estates, encouraging children and parents to engage with the activities. The goal is to inspire children to join local sports clubs, fostering long-term participation and community involvement. Feedback to the initiative from both parents and the children has been extremely positive.