Local Notes: New York trip, Portlaw in 1837, school news and more
Portlaw NS camogie team who played in a recent blitz in Tramore
In 1837 Samuel Lewis published a two-volume guide and atlas documenting each village, town and parish in Ireland. The entry for Portlaw provides a detailed snapshot of the time, including population, local economy, industry, religion, education and parish structure.
The newly built cotton mill is described as “very spacious, with a flat roof, on which is a reservoir for water, 260 feet in length and 40 feet in breadth; it is fitted up with the most improved machinery, propelled by three large water-wheels, and three steam engines, the united power of which is estimated at more than 300 horses.” More than 1,000 people were employed in the mill, while the village population stood at 3,250. Lewis’s guide and accompanying atlas provide a fascinating picture of Ireland in 1837, with nearby areas such as Guilcagh, Clonegam and Kilmeaden also included. The publication can be easily accessed online.
Well done to the Portlaw N.S U13 camogie team who competed in the Cumann na mBunscol blitz at Tramore GAA pitch. They played three matches, recording wins over Dunhill N.S and Glór Na Mara Tramore N.S, with their only defeat coming against Kill N.S. The girls displayed excellent skill in the opening games and, despite tired legs following recent athletics events and an U14 match, battled bravely throughout. They now progress to the Cup semi-final (details to be confirmed). Thanks to their coaches Ms Donnelly and Sinead, and best of luck in the next stage.
Best of luck to the Portlaw minor boys team as they travel to New York this weekend. After months of fundraising, they now get to enjoy what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Three years ago, the club’s minor camogie team made a similar journey, and now it is the boys’ turn.
The club expressed pride in the strong community spirit that makes such opportunities possible. Congratulations to Matilda Walsh, Sarah O’Connor, Layla O’Regan and Aoibheann Doherty on winning the Junior Munster Shield with St Declan’s, Kilmacthomas.
Matilda captained the side and scored a goal, delivering an outstanding performance.
Well done also to U8 player of the week Aoife and U10 player of the week Ellie. Keep up the great work.
New York Trip: Friday, May 1 - excitement was palpable as two buses departed Portlaw at 3.45am, carrying a group of 97, including 34 players from U15 to minor level, along with families and supporters. After arriving in New York, the group travelled to their hotel before heading to The Paddock on Katonah Avenue, owned by Portlaw native John Long. Later, they took part in a joint training session with the New York Féile team in Redmond Park, receiving a warm welcome from the New York Minor Board. Players then met their host families, where they would stay for the next three nights. Saturday, May 2: The group travelled to Rockland GAA grounds for a blitz involving clubs Rockland, Le Chéile and Shannon Gaels. Both U15 and minor teams competed in a series of highly competitive matches. The facilities and hospitality received high praise, with food and refreshments provided throughout. Later, the group attended a senior hurling match between New York and San Francisco before visiting the American Dream complex, where players enjoyed the indoor water park and shopping facilities. Sunday, May 3: The group attended a New York Yankees v Baltimore Orioles game at Yankee Stadium, thanks to the generosity of Philly Hennebery. Later, they travelled to Gaelic Park for matches against New York. The U15 team faced a strong New York side, who claimed victory, while the Portlaw minors secured an impressive win in their fixture. The day concluded with further hospitality and strengthening of ties between the two clubs and communities. Monday, May 4: The group spent a full day exploring Manhattan, taking in Grand Central Station, the city skyline from One Vanderbilt, Central Park, St Patrick’s Cathedral, the 9/11 Memorial and a boat tour of the harbour. They also crossed Brooklyn Bridge and visited Times Square, fitting an extraordinary amount into a single day. Tuesday, May 5: On their final day, the group enjoyed some downtime before returning home. The trip provided unforgettable experiences, strong connections with New York GAA and lasting memories for all involved. Sincere thanks were extended to Ann Marie Kennedy, Laurence Kennedy, Eamon Fitzgerald and all involved in New York GAA for their exceptional hospitality.
Another excellent performance from the U9s against a strong De La Salle side. Portlaw battled back from 3-1 down to level the game, only to lose with the final kick. Goals were scored by Freddie M, Max B and Louis. DJ delivered an outstanding performance in goal, making six or seven excellent saves to keep his team in contention. Recent competitive matches continue to benefit the squad’s development. Thanks as always to the parents for their support.
