Council Chair hosts a reception for St John’s Business and Enterprise College, Dromore

Recently the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry, hosted a reception for the Bearnageeha Cup Champions from St John’s Business and Enterprise College, Dromore.

The following is a copy of the Chair’s speech from the reception:

Good morning Councillors, ladies and gentlemen

As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am pleased to welcome you all here to The Grange, Omagh for this reception in honour of the St John’s Business and Enterprise College Bearnegeeha Cup Champions.

The final took place on 04 February 2025 and, following a close encounter with Sperrin Integrated College from Magherafelt in the Semi Finals, you deservedly earned your place.

The final saw you take on Dominican College from Portstewart at Celtic Park in Londonderry.  Dominican College came out strong and scored with the first attack, however, at half time you were just 3 points behind.  In the second half you emerged with determination and this was evident from the start as it was score for score for most of the half.

With just five minutes to go, Aaron McDonnell pushed forward and scored the crucial goal.  Despite continued attacks from Dominican College, you held on strongly to take the victory.  The 04 February 2025 will be etched in the memories of each of you and the school for many years to come.

Playing sport requires a number of important qualities, not least being physically active and well trained in the game, however, it also teaches you important qualities such as being resilient, determined, a team player and good communicator.  You demonstrated these key characteristics to a high level with the tough matches which you played.  These qualities will be beneficial to you away from the pitch as you move into your chosen career.

I would like to commend the Coaches and thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience to allow the boys to enjoy special moments like this.

I would also like to commend each and every player on the Team on this excellent victory and on your commitment to training.  This can be difficult as you also have your schoolwork and Club Football as well as personal commitments competing for your time.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I congratulate all the Players and Coaches on your Bearnegeeha Cup win.  You have done yourselves, your family and friends, your school and your District proud.  I would like to wish you every success in your future sporting and academic endeavours.

Thank you.