Bursary in memory of passionate young Wexford man continues to help local GAA community
Colin Byrne sadly passed away in 2022 after a short illness. He was described as a much adored member of the community, whose infectious enthusiasm and passion for life endearing him to all who knew him.
As his first love was the GAA, and known for wearing his club and county colours more than his beaming smile, Half Way House Bunclody launched the Colin Byrne Bursary in conjunction with his family to support the development of players and coaches within the club.
The programmes have a focus on youth development and Gaelic games to ensure Colin's legacy will live on in assisting young people to maximise their potential.
Thanks to great community support at a number of fundraising events, most notably the large barbecue held last year, the committee have announced the allocation of this year's funds, reaching over €6,000.
The Wexford branch of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Ireland will receive €1,500, as the cause is very close to the family's hearts. Spina Bifida is when a baby's spine and spinal cord do not develop properly, causing a gap.
"Colin had many great days with the crew, going on tours and to matches. This was a cause very close to the heart of Colin and continues to be for the Byrne family,' they said.
The Games Promotion Officer Programme is set to receive €1,500. This programme provides qualified coaches to primary schools and undergraduate teams, which allows the club to run weekly sessions.
"We are lucky in Bunclody to have Wexford camogie star Anais Cullen as out Games Promotion Officer. This initiative aims to foster a love for our games among the students of Bunclody and Kilmyshall National School, promoting teamwork, leadership, and a healthy lifestyle,' they explained.
A sum of €1,000 will go to Coiste Strength and Conditioning Programme which will empower individuals with the knowledge to make healthy choices.
€500 will be allocated to Bunclody Tidy Towns, who said they were honoured to receive the funding.
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"Colin was a unique individual who was a great fan of the GAA and a great advocate throughout his life for people with disabilities. He was a great character, with a lovely sense of humour and lived life to the full. It is a wonderful legacy in memory of Colin and Bunclody Tidy Towns is honoured to receive such support,' they said.
Kildavin National School's sensory room will receive €300, while another €300 will be given to Pieta House and Gavin Glynn organisations. A further €300 will go towards Bunclody's Christmas lights.
The bursary also sponsored a set of jerseys for the club's Heroes Nursey, which were presented last November. Sliotars and helmets were also sponsored for the national schools in the parish.
Following great success, the committee is determined to continue their work while keeping Colin's memory alive.
"We as a committee were blown away by the support for the Colin Byrne Bursary Fund in 2024. The funding allocations exemplify the funds founding principal to enable young people to maximise their potential. The bursary will continue its fundraising efforts into 2025 and beyond, and we hope you will join us in carrying on Colin's legacy.
The 2025 Coin Byrne Bursary barbecue will take place on Sunday, May 4 in Murphy's Tig Leath Slí.
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