Scartaglen National School Parents’ Council in partnership with its fundraising committee are undertaking a major drive through a GoFundMe page to provide an all-weather astroturf playing field/sports facility on the grounds of the school.
“In March 2020 we had just begun this fundraising journey when Covid-19 hit.
Our proposed ‘Night At The Dogs’ had to be postponed, hence putting a pause on our fundraising efforts,” said committee spokesperson, Moira Hughes.
Goals to be Achieved this Summer
“Due to current government guidelines this is not an avenue we will be able to revisit in the near future, therefore we have now turned to the route we feel will best allow us achieve our goal this summer.
“The astroturf pitch will provide the children with a clean, non-slip and safe area for a variety of sports all year round for many years to come,” Moira continued.
Much Needed Extra Space
“This much needed extra space for the school will be invaluable. While we are lucky to have a grass area, our children are in school the wettest nine months of the year.
“As a result it is rare that the surface is suitable for sport and play-times and lies idle for the most part of the year.
“Staying active is so important for the physical and mental health of our children and this facility will play a vital role in helping the staff and children deliver that positive environment.
€45,000 Project Costs
“The current estimate cost of the project is €45,000 and this will consist of a 30 x 20m astroturf pitch with a gated mesh fence surround and a sandstone finish walking track around the perimeter.
“We have €25,000 already secured through the school’s parents’ council savings/sponsorship received for the proposed Night at The Dogs and a generous bord of management donation.
“This is a wonderful foundation as we embark on the next phase of the journey.
Wonderful Response from Parents
“We have had a wonderful response from the parents body and we are now appealing to past, present, future parents, local businesses as well as the community of Scartaglen and beyond who may be in a position to help us achieve our goal and have the project completed this summer.
“We realise that they are constant demands on us financially, however, any donations large or small will be very much appreciated and greatly welcome.
“We truly believe that the difference the new astroturf pitch will provide will be transformative for the pupils and staff,” Moire concluded.
Active And Hard-Working
Paul Moroney is the principal of Scartaglen National School and he said that all associated with the project are delighted to have such an active and hard-working parents’ council in the school.
“Due to a phenomenal effort behind the scenes we are very excited to be within touching distance of achieving our goal of a brand new astroturf pitch,” said Mr. Moroney.
Fund-Raising Night Cancelled
“We were disappointed that our fund-raising night at the greyhound stadium had to be cancelled due to COVID-19 but it did not dampen the spirits of our parents’ council as the members continued to work alongside our board of management on making this dream a reality.
“The students of the school can look forward to playing on a pitch that can be used all year round.
Benefits To Health And Well being
“The additional space it will provide us with will mean so much to the school and its students.
“It is sure to benefit both the health and well being of everyone for years to come.
“I would like to thank the parents’ council, the board of management and everyone who has donated to our astroturf fund to date,” said Mr. Moroney.
Link to Donations
You can show your support by donating through the GoFundMe page through the link here: https://gofund.me/02d0fa80
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