The facility has been equipped by Ulster Rugby through the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure’s (DCAL) 'Promoting Equality, Tackling Poverty and Social Exclusion through Sport' programme, while DSD also provided funding for the project.
The gym will be utilised by pupils and will also be opened up for use by other schools and the wider community. A range of equipment has been installed at the venue and it is suitable for use by males and females of all ages.
Ulster Rugby Community Rugby Coach, Jonathan Graham, commented:
“We're delighted to be able to contribute to this fantastic project, which will provide pupils at St. Paul's with a top class facility.
“One of our primary organisational goals is to improve health and wellbeing among all age groups and I believe the installation of gym equipment at sites such as this is a great way to achieve that. Our community gym initiative will see the refurbishment of 15 gyms in total across the Province and is a key aspect of our plans to increase opportunities for people to engage with fitness and rugby sessions.
“I’d like to thank the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure for their continued support in helping us expand rugby in both traditional and non-traditional areas.”
Pictured at the community gym launch at St. Paul’s Bessbrook are (back row L-R): Jonathan Graham, Ulster Rugby Community Rugby Coach; Blaise McKnight, Head Boy and member of Ulster U18 Clubs squad; John Boyd, Chairman of the IRFU Ulster Branch Rugby Committee; Jarlath Burns, St. Paul’s Principal and (front row L-R): Mervyn Storey, DSD Minister; Kacper Janik, member of Ulster U17 squad.