The children of Scoil Chróine National School in Dungloe got a big surprise yesterday when past pupil and current Donegal Senior player Mark Curran visited to ‘turn the first sod’ on their much awaited all weather astro play area.
Both kids and staff were thrilled that Mark took time from his already busy schedule to come and be part of this today.
As a thank you to Mark, the kids with local photographer Mary Rodgers sang Jimmy’s Winning Matches and wished him the very best for Sunday’s games against Louth.
Work will commence further in the coming days when the children finish up for their summer break.
An all weather area for kids to be active in is essential on the school grounds in this day and age. The new space will feature running tracks, basketball facilities, football pitches, and areas for non-athletic children.
Mark Curran turns the first sod at Scoil Chróine National School in Dungloe
With no allocated funding available, the school community took it upon themselves to start a fundraiser.
The total cost of the project is €100,000. The school has already raised a portion through previous fundraisers organized by the Parent’s Association. Therefore, the “Sponsor a Square” campaign aims to raise the remaining €55,000.
They have just over €19,000 of that collected at present.
For a €20 donation, individuals can sponsor a “square” on the new play area. Donations can be made through the school’s iDonate page https://www.idonate.ie/event/scoilchroineplaygroundfundraiser.
With 2,750 squares to sponsor, the school community is hoping to reach out to past pupils and staff who may be willing to give back to their old school.
By sponsoring a foot of space in the yard, people can play their part in making playtime more fun for the 300 students.
Every donor will have their name displayed on a special “Friends of Scoil Chróine Appreciation Wall” as a token of gratitude for their contribution.
Another exciting element of the fundraiser has been kindly supported by Mark Curran. A new raffle is offering the chance to win a signed Donegal Jersey, by the team, tickets are only €5 each or 3 for €10. Tickets are on sale now and will close on July 13th: https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/DonegalGAAJerseysignedbytheDonegal2024Team
