Franner Coach praises players

by Sean Duffy

After a stunning season from the Francis Street CBS lads, football coach Conor Doyle had nothing but praise for the enthusiasm his team have shown this year.

He said: “The lads have shown great enthusiasm and discipline this year. We train once a week after school and the attitude that the lads are bringing to the sport is great to see.”

The highlight from the ‘Franner’ boys this season came from a walkover 8 – 0 win in the Pegasus Cup earlier this year. Coach Doyle was also delighted with his team’s overall performance against Oatlands CBS, Drimnagh and Crumlin.

Doyle is a keen believer of discipline both on and off the pitch. “We try to teach the lads how to win and lose properly. It’s very important that they learn the skills of how to play fair. That is very important in our school,” he said.

The Sixth Class teacher also stated that the boys’ involvement in sport could play a key role as they develop into young adults. “We see a huge benefit for the lads that get involved with sport. They learn so much from it. It is great to see them developing their skills, depending on each other, and looking out for one another. They also have to respect their opponents. All these things will be important as they get older,” said Doyle.

The students at Francis Street will be eagerly awaiting the forthcoming award of sportsman of the year. The gong is given every year to the standout player of the season.

And it is not necessarily given to the top goal scorer. The player must show respect for teammates, opposition players, teachers and coaches to win sportsman of the year.

Competition for the trophy will be tough. Mr Doyle explained: “There are a number of excellent candidates this year.”

The trophy is named after former teacher Ollie Quinlan, who first brought hurling to Francis Street.  The school has honoured his memory by naming its most prestigious trophy after the teacher who gave an incredible 38 years of service to the school.