Knockbeg past pupils dig deep for Laois school's sports

Past students of the Knockbeg College in Laois have put a big dent in the cost of enhancing sports facilities at their alma mater.

Friday November 15 saw the return of the Knockbeg College Past Pupil's Union (PPU) dinner in the Seven Oaks Hotel. The pandemic had interrupted proceedings for a couple of years, but the latest gathering indicated that the Knockbeg fraternity is very much alive and well.

The evening began with a tour of the new school from 5.30pm to allow past pupils take a trip down memory lane. A prayer service took place in the college chapel, to remember all deceased past pupils and staff.

This year they targeted three year groups from the 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 year cohorts to gather and celebrate. The most recent were those who graduated in 2011, 2012 and 2013, and the elder statesmen were those from 1961, 1962 and 1963.

With over 200 past pupils present and plenty of invited guests, the sense of the Knockbeg community spirit was evident and vibrant all night, with great stories of past times being shared. We were joined on the night by our patron, Bishop Nulty. Mons. Byrne, Fr Dunne and Fr Dunphy were also present, as they all served on the staff in the College, and still play an active role in the life of Knockbeg.

A highlight of the night was the handing over of the chain of office as President of the Past Pupils' Union by Charlie Flanagan to PJ Dolan. The Laois Offaly TD was thanked for all his ​endeavours over his term, especially for his involvement in the opening of the new school.

Mr Dolan was wished all the best in his role as President and thanked for accepting this prestigious honour. 

As a gesture from the PPU, a cheque to the value of €5000 was presented to the College to help fund our next venture - the pitch development on the grounds of the school.

A presentation was made to the outgoing secretary, Noeleen Heffernan, for her service to the needs of Knockbeg for over 32 years. We wish her well in her retirement.

IN PICTURES: School past pupils from Laois, Carlow and Kildare reunite

Joe Farrell, Chairperson of the PPU Carlow Branch, acted as MC on the night, and thanked all for their support and work in keeping the union as strong as ever.

Michael Fitzpatrick, Chairperson of the PPU Dublin Branch, was present on the night and also. He was thanked for keeping the Dublin Branch alive and well. The planning for the next dinner is already underway and any past pupils keen to join the committee are more than welcome. 

The current committee was thanked for organising the successful and enjoyable occasion.