Local Notes: Vinny Keane's superb success and community art challenge
Vincent Keane, who trained at the Butler Community Centre, represented Ireland in the recent Irish Blind and Visually Impaired (VI) Sports Association World Games.
Vincent ‘Vinny’ Keane, a resident of Waterford, has achieved a remarkable milestone by representing Ireland in the recent Irish Blind and Visually Impaired (VI) Sports Association World Games. Training diligently at the Butler Community Centre, which proudly sponsors him, Vinny has shown extraordinary dedication and skill in visually impaired tennis. Despite having only picked up the racket just over a year ago, his rapid progress and exceptional talent have earned him a spot among Ireland’s elite athletes in the sport. Vinny is hoping to qualify to represent Ireland at the International Blind Tennis Association World Championship in Italy this year.
Vinny’s journey to the World Games is a testament to his perseverance and passion for tennis and is now Irish national champion in his category (B2 singles winner). The support from the Butler Community Centre has been instrumental in his development, providing not only a venue for his rigorous training sessions but also the encouragement and resources needed to compete at an international level. Vinny’s swift rise in the ranks of visually impaired tennis highlights his natural aptitude and determination, marking him as an inspiration to both his community and fellow athletes.
The Blind/Visually Impaired (VI) Sports Association World Games is a prestigious international event that brings together athletes from around the globe to compete in a variety of sports adapted for individuals with visual impairments. These games showcase the remarkable skills and resilience of visually impaired athletes, offering a platform for competition, camaraderie, and the promotion of inclusive sports. Events range from athletics and swimming to team sports and racquet sports, such as tennis, each designed to highlight the talents and hard work of the participants. The World Games not only foster global sportsmanship and unity but also aim to raise awareness about the capabilities and achievements of visually impaired athletes.
The death sadly occurred on Sunday, May 19, of Lukey Mulrooney, Saint Ursula’s Terrace, Waterford and late of Mulrooney’s Scrap Metals. Predeceased by his loving father Luke (Boycie) and brother Patrick (Whacker), he is survived by his loving sons Noel and Luke, daughters Louise, Tara, Lexi and Lauren, his adoring grandchildren, his loving mother Bridie. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his brother and sisters, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends. Requiem Mass took place on Thursday, May 23, at 1:30pm in The Sacred Heart Church, The Folly, followed by burial immediately afterwards in Kilbarry Cemetery. Condolences are extended to Lukey’s family, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace.
The death sadly occurred on Tuesday, May 14, of Marcella (Cella) Nolan, Hillview, Waterford, formerly of the German Road, St. John's Park and late of St. Brigid’s, Lower Yellow Road and Milton Bradley (Hasbro). Predeceased by her loving parents William and Kathleen, her brother Gerard and her nephew Raymond O’Rourke, she is survived by her loving children Fionn and Roisin, daughter-in-law Aislinn, sisters Marietta and Barbara, brother Eugene, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, relatives, friends and neighbours. Marcella will be sadly missed by all her relatives, extended family, neighbours and friends. Celebration of life at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Waterford took place on Thursday, May 16. Private cremation took place on Friday, May 17. Condolences are extended to Marcella’s family, relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.
Baptism Celebration We welcome Lilly-Rose Patricia Finch into our Christian Community through Baptism. Please keep her, her parents and god-parents in your prayers. Baptism enquiries / bookings please email: sacredheartparishinfo@gmail.com First Holy Communion The girls from St. Ursula’s Primary School celebrated their First Holy Communion in the Sacred Heart Church on Saturday, May 25, at 11:00am. Prayers and best wishes to the girls, their parents and families, their teachers and faith friends, and all who have helped them prepare for this special day. May the Lord, whom they receive in Holy Communion, bless and help them and stay by their side all the days of their lives.
Leave your mark on our community, Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre Waterford have teamed up with Waterford City and County Council Creative Communities to create a mural with the adults and children from 10-14 years of age, adults 18+ from the Sacred Heart area. Help us create art that reflects the spirit of our community, participate in a community mural, no experience necessary. Facilitated by artist in residance Ruth on Saturday, June 8, from 9.30 – 11.30am 10-14 years; and 12 – 2pm. If you or your child wish to take part in this project please contact Anne on 051-306728.
Kids Summer Camp at Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre for the month of July – we will be running a summer camp for kids aged 8-12 years. This programme will run four days a week, Monday to Thursday, from 10am to 2pm, costing €45 per week. Starting week from 1-4 July, 8-11 July, 15-18 July, last week 22-25 July. Places are limited so early registration is advised. For further information ring Anne on 051 306728 to secure your child’s place.
Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre Waterford are running a Social Anxiety Programme for people 18 years and over for 10 weeks. This course will provide people with an opportunity to challenge fears around social experiences. Starting Thursday, May 30, from 7-9pm. This is a free course however booking is essential. Please contact Elaine on 051 306728 or email Sacred Heart FRC to book your place to come along.
