A COMMENT FROM CURRANES
Terence McQuinn
f the truth were told, Curranes is only a little part of the lovely townland of Laccabawn. Here, three miles North East of Castleisland, on a site situated 600ft over sea level was built the old school in 1869. No wonder, many of our immigrants to Boston and Chicago boasted that they had gone to our school.
In 1965, the new school, School Ide, opened across the road and it overlooks Castleisland and the valley of Maine. We have a panoramic view of Cordal, Scartaglin, Currow, Farranfore and Ballymac, all districts to be "looked up to" rather than "down on"when it comes to the Blitz. The majestic Killarney mountains are blue on the horizon. Castlemaine Bay and Sliabh Mish are the source of prevailing winds that bring pure, fresh air to our playground.
This is where we practice and play our basketball, in all kinds of weather, fair and foul. Sometimes, a fog cuts off the scene below, more times a mist or mild shower descends from above and on occasion, we get gales that would blow the ball right out of the baskets.
"Quiet perseverance gains the prize" was the proverb in our headline copies. For us it was a proverb very true, as over the years we have gained many a prize, played good basketball and made many friends. Our players have gone on to represent their respective second level schools, St. Mary's Basketball Club, Kerry and indeed Ireland. Now we are fortunate to have some of these past pupils coming back to coach and pass on their expertise.
Up to about ten years ago we were a two teacher school. We didn't have enough pupils to put out a team, so our players joined the boys' and girls' town teams. However, with an increase in numbers, we had our own school teams. From the beginning, our boys were "flying" and the girls were "trying". But gradually they improved, and soon were able to match the boys in every facet of the game. Junior boys and girls took example from their seniors and then we had some fun in the playground. During lunch time there would be four games going on simultaneously it always amazed me to watch this scene. There were clashes, crashes, confusion and obstruction. Time and again, two balls were trying to beat each other to the basket and of course, neither one went in. What was more fantastic was that it was accepted as normal. If a small child got knocked over, the game stopped, he or she was helped up and everything being OK, the games resumed. Surely, this is one of the greatest lessons in self control and a consideration for others that we can give to our children. Basketball is a team game and has little time, place or use for the selfish player. Another great aspect of the game is that a player can practise most of the skills on his/her own.
For me, the primary schools competition is the best part of the Blitz. It is regrettable that all their games cannot be seen in the Centre. The 100% commitment , drama and excitement generated in Junior Boys is most entertaining. I appreciate the task that this wonderful committee has, to facilitate everyone. They keep the show on the road and I have the greatest admiration for them. They have been supportive and encouraging to us - " the small school on the hill" - and this, we appreciate.
Once more, Jimmy O'Connell will join me on the bench for the Blitz '93.