The ILE Becomes Hurling and Gaelic Football Pros!

Today marked the third day of classes. We can't believe how fast time is flying! This morning, ALL of the boys showed up in their dress pants/shirts/ties. They all clean up well and looked very handsome. They made it a point to sit in the front row of classes and were very professional. When Teacher Dan walked into the classroom, they all stood up to acknowledge him as well. I only wish I had a picture of them! In Irish Studies, they learned about Ireland's geography and geology. We talked about the lakes, mountains, and rivers in Ireland and learned about peat. A few kids thought it was Counselor Pete, Taryn was referring to, but now understand what peat in Ireland is:). In Gaelic, they learned how to count in preparation for Friday's Bingo game. A haon, a dó, a trí, a ceathair, a cúig... Teacher Dan said they are doing well and participate a lot. He said Cara, Caroline, Hannah, Kelsey, and Jamie were very good. For Irish history they learned about the Famine. Teacher Dan also talked about the Famine, emigration, and the Civil War in Irish American history. Counselor Pete elaborated more on Patrick Cavanagh and students were assigned to write poems about him in his poetic scheme. Counselor Pete said that Cailin and Jocelyn had great poems and he was very happy with their writing abilities! We also had two special visitors today-Coaches from the Waterford GAA led by Eoin Breathnach. The students loved it and had a blast! You should have seem them take to the field. They first learned Gaelic football, had a few competitions with basic passing movies, and then scrimmaged against each other. Conor, once again, picked it up very quickly and won the competition. He's a great athlete. Jordan was runner-up. Caroline also did well and has great coordination, but took a few spills in the process of diving for the ball. Hannah also did well. The students then learned how to play hurling. They put on their helmets, grabbed their hurleys and slithers, practiced dribbling the ball down the field, and then played a short game. Eileen and Elysse liked hurling better, because it was more competitive. Some of the students mentioned that they wanted to bring hurling sticks back home and practice in the states as well. Cliff and Cailin picked hurling up very quickly. It was wonderful for the students to be able to learn how to play the Gaelic football and hurling, as we are going to the Leinster Finals on Sunday at Croke Park. They now know the basics of the game and will be able to understand the match much better. Tonight students will have their first dance/disco at the school. Another group that is staying at the campus will be joining us, so everyone is looking forward to showing off their dance skills. Ty and Cliff said they had some "awesome moves" to show us! We can't wait! Everyone seems to be doing well. A few complaints about the ketchup though, as they miss Heinz. Tomorrow we are off on another wonderful tour. Cahir Castle, the Blarney Castle, Cork, and Youghal. It's going to be a great day!

← All posts