Some 60 children, ably supported by parents and coaches, had a fantastic evening of sport and camaraderie. The main clubs involved were Larne RFC Youth, Larne FC U19s, Shane O’Neills and Latharna Og Hurling Clubs from the borough.
Prior to the event the kids were enthralled to listen to a list of mainly past sports stars from the area including:
Trevor Ringland - Rugby, Ulster, Ireland, British & Irish Lions
Marty Rogers - Football including NI U21s, Chelsea, Cambridge, Motherwell
Diane Barr, double Gold Paralympic medalist
Dave 'Boy' McAuley, Former World Boxing Champion
Also in attendance were several county hurlers including All Star Liam Watson, who had travelled down specially from Loughgiel along with John Campbell who was involved in Sunday’s Antrim Final against Cushendall.
The kids went on to enjoy learning the skills of each sport & clearly showed how sportspeople can thrive by picking up other sports skills very quickly. New and old acquaintances were made in front of a large crowd before the Rugby Club kindly laid on a barbeque kindly sponsored by John McIlwaine.
This is the first of a series of events which are planned, with the next due to be held in Feystown in Spring 2015.
Larne RFC is deeply grateful to the participating clubs, Larne Council, the PSNI and other community representatives who enthusiastically supported the event and helped make it happen.