Liam Lyons Academy
The academy was founded in 2016 in memory of little Liam Lyons who lost his life tragically. The launch of the academy was fully supported by Liam’s parents Eoin and Marian and the wider Lyons family who have contributed enormously to the club over many decades and generations.
The academy caters for young players from nursery to Under 12 at which point there is a ‘graduation’ ceremony with certificates awarded in recognition of achievement. To ensure the quality of what the academy has to offer, we have over 20 qualified coaches with the majority having achieved Level one certification, while also having successfully been Garda vetted.
The work of the Academy includes considerable involvement with Scoil Eoin in Rath where club members provide coaching on a weekly basis during the school year. There is also a considerable input to the school teams in both Hurling and Football in co-operation with school staff.
The Damien Young model of skill and agility development is used as part of the club offering. During winter and early spring Eglish & Drumcullen Community Centre is used to implement this model. These fun and active sessions last for less than an hour and parents are encouraged to remain and participate. These evenings have proven to be a great success in encouraging children of all abilities to engage in an inclusive way while also providing a social interaction for parents.
Throughout later Spring, Summer and early Autumn the action swings to the club grounds where players in the academy together with their many coaches engage in practise and games. Trips to various locations both within and outside Offaly are arranged for blitzes and games. The club also hosts a number of blitzes during the year.
The inclusive nature of the Academy provides for the optimum involvement of children, coaches and parents in a safe, enjoyable and developmental environment. The goal is to assist our children to reach the maximum of their potential with a view to representing Drumcullen and Offaly in the future.
