Rugby hero Brian O"Driscoll"s dad launches golf classic at Trim school

DR FRANK O"Driscoll, father of Grand Slam winning Irish rugby captain Brian O"Driscoll, visited St Michael"s NS, Trim, to launch their annual golf classic. Also present last Friday for the launch were sponsor Jonathan Cusack representing Cusack Homes/Hotels, school principal Fergal Kelly and members of the school"s board of management. Dr O"Driscoll spent almost three hours in the school where he visited classes and also the special autism classes. Being in the medical field, Dr O"Driscoll has a keen interest, particularly in the area of autism and he professed himself extremely impressed with the school atmosphere, facilities, pupils and staff. He was also treated to a rendition of 'Alleluia" from the school choir, while the school recorder group played the national anthem on his arrival. Dr O"Driscoll was very impressed with the range of activities in the school and commented that many schools he visits have expertise in perhaps one area such as sport but what he witnessed in St Michael"s was expertise right across a broad range of subjects, be it music, drama, sport, inclusion of pupils with special needs, art and much more besides. Dr O"Driscoll spoke to pupils about his love of rugby and gave some insight on what it was like to be the father of such a renowned rugby player. The children were delighted with the visit and he encouraged all the boys to try take up some sport as it can lead to a much healthier and happier lifestyle. St Michael"s Golf Classic takes place on Friday, 12th June in Knightsbrook Golf Club and the time-sheet is available in the school. 'Knightsbrook"s beautiful layout and location is undoubtedly enhancing the golfing landscape in the region and the classic should be a special occasion for everybody,' said Mr Kelly. In September 2000, St Michael"s Primary School embraced the challenge of providing educational facilities for children with autism. Since then, this facility has gone from strength to strength with a staff of three teachers and six special needs assistants. There are also plans to open an extra class and an autism pre-school in the next two years. The mainstream boys" school has 10 classes from second to sixth class and caters for almost 300 pupils in the eight - 13 age group. Many special needs pupils are integrated with children of their peers in the mainstream school in as much as possible. There is an ongoing need for funds to meet the cost of the facilities and resources in the school and this year"s golf classic is the centrepiece of the fundraising programme for the year. St Michael"s are very appreciative of all donations and support and, of course, also appreciate the continued support of Cusack Homes/Hotels, the golf classic"s main sponsor.