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Irish Independent
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Wonderful Wexford crowned national Under-12 water polo champions
The Wexford team faced two fierce challenges, rising to the occasion with skill, spirit and incredible teamwork. A hard-fought semi-final victory over North Dublin set the stage for a high-stakes showdown with Clonard of Belfast in the final. With nerves of steel and hearts full of determination, the Wexford boys delivered a performance to remember, emerging victorious and claiming the coveted national title. The team's success is a testament to the talent and commitment of its young stars: Phoenix Prochaska, Rowan Barrett, Oliver Ainsworth, Conan O'Grady, Rory O'Hanlon, Conal McCarthy, Daniel Jordan, Ben Kehoe, Oliver McEvoy, and Pádraig McCarthy. Each player gave it their all and a special congratulations goes to Daniel Jordan, who was named Male MVP of the tournament for his outstanding contribution. Head coach Murt praised the team's resilience and growth, saying: "This result didn't happen overnight. These players have been training consistently all year, showing maturity beyond their age, and improving week by week. 'The way they handled pressure, supported one another, and kept their focus was truly inspiring. We've built not just a team, but a foundation for Wexford's future in water polo that is really putting Wexford on the map as a county of swimming excellence.' This milestone win is the result of tireless effort from both players and coaching staff. Heartfelt thanks go to coach Murt for his leadership and belief in this team, and to George, Thomas and Philip for their skill, time and commitment in preparing the boys for this achievement. Niall Reck, Chairman of Wexford Swimming & Water Polo Club, added: "This is a fantastic achievement for our club. Having one player represent Ireland at the European Championships earlier this year, and now a full Under-12 team becoming All-Ireland champions, the future is looking very bright. 'This is not just a win for the team, it's a win for the whole club and community. It shows the strength of our youth development and coaching pathway. 'We're so proud of how far we've come, and we're excited about what's next for Wexford Water Polo." This landmark victory isn't just a trophy, it's a symbol of dedication, growth, and the rising tide of talent coming from Wexford. With this historic win, the club has firmly established itself as a force in Irish water polo, and the journey is only just beginning. For more information visit
Irish Independent
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
A late Wexford publican, musical mentor, and gifted artist among those honoured at annual Rosslare Civic Awards
The first of these was the late Murt McGarry of Kilmore Quay. Although he passed away in 2006 at the age of 45, Murt's work as an artist is still remembered and celebrated across the county. His nascent talent first became apparent when he won the national Texaco Art competition while still a schoolboy and he was later commissioned by Wexford County Council to do the drawings at the National Heritage Park and create the artist's impression of the council's new waterfront development in New Ross. Murt was a keen tin whistle and bodhrán player and attended the Fleadh Cheoil every year. He spent six years researching and illustrating his book on Irish history, Strangers at Home, which his father Liam later published posthumously. Paying tribute to Murt, Councillor Jim Codd, the cathaoirleach of the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD), said, 'Murt was self-taught and had a natural talent, and he had a great love of history, heritage and nature and culture.' Another beloved member of the community who has since passed was honoured next. The late John Sammy Sinnott of Duncormick, who passed in 2022 at the age of 92, was described by Cllr Codd as more than just a publican, but 'a counsellor, someone who was always there if you needed help'. 'He valued us as a people, he knew our ancestors, our ways, everybody was welcomed and cared for under his thatched roof,' continued Cllr Codd. 'Sinnott's was an institution, a men's shed before the term became popular, it was there people went to get the news in older times. And Sammy was the keeper of our oral history; people came from all over to immerse themselves in the rich culture of south Wexford, and no less than the Rolling Stones manager, Chesney Milligan, once served behind the bar.' Mick Berry accepted the award on behalf of the Sinnott family. The late Dick Lambert, who passed away in 2008, was then honoured for his 'outstanding contribution to culture and heritage'. He was the author of three books chronicling the history of Rathangan, books which Wexford County Council is now preparing to have reprinted for a new audience. The tidy towns committee in Carrig-on-Bannow was next to receive a civic award for its work in 'developing its local community' and 'enhancing the environment' in south Wexford. Commending the group for the strides it has taken in promoting biodiversity and sustainability in the area, Cllr Codd noted how inclusive the tidy towns committee is and how it has 'rejuvenated' the village and 'fostered a culture of tidiness'. 'The group ensures the village always looks its best all year-round, and also it is blessed to have two wonderful employment scheme members who are dedicated and motivated in their work,' he added. Established in 1974, Corach Ramblers are now based in Duncormick and boast some of the finest facilities in the county. However, the club had some nomadic years before finally settling in its current home. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more 'They initially played their home matches in Wellingtonbridge, with local publican John Ryan providing a pitch, he also sponsored the team with a new football,' recounted Cllr Codd. That ball remains in the possession of the club and is joined by committee members who have been there since the outset, including Jimmy McWhitty and Willie Wallace. Those two men were heavily involved in the fundraiser in 1998 which led to the club purchasing five acres of land in Duncormick four years later where it established its new home. "There have been a lot very good people involved in the club over the years, but Willie Wallace, Breda Walsh, Toddy and Clodagh Barry, all of whom have given many years working with the club, should get a special mention,' said Cllr Codd. 'Corach Ramblers now has a huge membership with teams competing in underage and adult leagues; it's a hub of activity and a place where lifelong friendships are made.' The last recipient on the night was Áine Kennedy who was recognised for her outstanding contribution to arts and culture in the RMD. A familiar face to all those with even a passing interest in traditional Irish music, Áine became director of the Danescastle Music Group following the retirement of Ms Martha Torpey and now works with over 200 children as they take the first steps towards Fleadh Cheoils and Scór na nÓgs of the future. 'We are so lucky to have the most dedicated director in all of the land,' said Cllr Codd. 'Áine always gives 100 per cent to the children of Carrig on Bannow and surrounding areas that come to learn music in Danescastle. She prepares them for various competitions and events around the county and country and when the group is asked to play at different events, Áine is the person that sends the texts, organises who is going, and generally ends up bringing half the children in her own car." Áine is also chairperson of Wexford Scór and secretary of Leinster Scór Secretary, she is also a member of the Rackard League Committee and combines all these voluntary roles with her full-time job as principal of Danescastle National School "She is an extraordinary principal and gives so much of her time to the children of our parish,' said Cllr Codd. 'We are truly blessed to have Aine as a dedicated principal and musical director.'
