Courtesy: Westmeath Independent


Summerhill pupils give racism the boot in futsal soccer blitz

Wednesday, 21st October, 2009

As part of FARE (Football against Racism in Europe) week, the FAI, in conjunction with Roscommon County Council, rolled out a futsal blitz and a poster competition for fifth and sixth class pupils in Summerhill National School.

The theme for the poster competition was unity - "Many Voices, One Goal". Summerhill was an ideal school for the event as it is host to children from many different ethnic communities. The event's aim was to bring together all nationalities from the local area for a fun day to play as one.

In attendance on the day were the Roscommon Mayor, Tony Ward and Local Councillors John Keogh and John Naughten. Mayor Tony Ward presented medals to participants and the cup to the winning captain, Kondrat Krysiak. As part of the celebration, Kondrat Krysiak was also lucky enough to be drawn to play in Croke Park at the half-time FARE week game at the Republic of Ireland v Montenegro match. The Mayor also presented a cup to the deserving winner of the poster competition, Jennifer O'Neill.

The Mayor said: "Roscommon County Council works closely with a lot of other organisations in the county in trying to make sure that Roscommon is an intercultural county. We do this in many ways - for example, we will be having an Information day for different ethnic minorities and cultures coming up shortly and of course through the work of the FAI Development Officer, Adrian Carberry, which is funded by the FAI and Roscommon County Council."

"Football has the power to get the message across that we are all equal; it is an opportunity for all to play together on an equal playing field. By its very nature, playing or watching football means that you meet and interact with others," he added.

Adrian Carberry, on behalf of the FAI and Roscommon County Council, thanked the staff and pupils of Summerhill Primary School & praised their commitment in making the day a success. Adrian also spoke on how a very important part of his role as FAI Development Officer in partnership with Roscommon County Council is to tackle racism through football. He was delighted "with the sense of unity displayed by the players on the day".

Mr Carberry also invited the public to support & attend the intercultural club open day. This event takes place on Saturday, November 7, from 10am to 3pm, at Monksland Community Pitches. Again this event is being hosted by the FAI and Roscommon County Council and is a fun day for 6 to 13 year-olds. It is also open to the general public and all are welcome.







Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com