Laois school celebrates as two students make Leinster squads

A Laois school has praised the efforts of two students who secured places on Leinster sports squads. 

Portlaoise College is celebrating the achievements of two students, Yifei Li and Eimear Byrne, who have both earned places on prestigious Leinster squads in their respective sports. Their dedication to extra-curricular activities has brought pride to the school and highlighted the importance of balancing academics with personal passions.

Yifei Li, a member of the Marlins Swim Club in Portlaoise, has been selected for the national swimming programme this year. A talented and driven athlete, Yifei’s accomplishments are not limited to swimming; she is also a skilled basketball player. She was recently chosen for the Leinster U15 girls’ basketball squad as part of the Portlaoise Panthers, alongside her schoolmates Hannah Scully and Sochima Onuora, the latter making the boys’ squad.

Meanwhile, Eimear Byrne has been selected for the Leinster U15 girls’ soccer team, having impressed in trials that started with over 170 players and ended with just 17 making the final squad. Nominated by the school’s soccer coach, Mr Moloughney, Eimear’s leadership skills have also earned her the captaincy of the school’s U15 girls’ team. She is a key player in the Shamrock Rovers academy and also represents the FAI Centre of Excellence.

Speaking about the student's achievements, Portlaoise College Principal, Noel Daly, emphasised the value of extra-curricular activities in education. 

 "At Portlaoise College, we believe that a well-rounded education extends beyond the classroom. Involvement in sports and other activities helps students develop crucial life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience," he said.