Boxing star Roisin Hegarty, a proud past pupil of the school, had the honour of raising the first amber flag at Scoil Mhuire gan Smál on Friday.
The event marked a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing throughout the school community.
Hegarty was the European U15 champion last year and has already won five Irish titles. Next week she will box for Ireland in a Four Nations tournament in Scotland. During the week, she was honoured with a Mayor’s Reception at the Public Services Centre in Letterkenny.
Now a student at Loreto Secondary School, Hegarty – who boxes with Twin Towns Boxing Club – spoke to Scoil Mhuire gan Smál about the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.
Roisin Hegarty with the student council of Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, who made posters for Roisín’s visit to the school
She emphasised the value of keeping fit, eating a balanced diet and maintaining strong mental health. She encouraged pupils to become involved in sport, whether as part of a team or as an individual competitor, explaining that all sports help us to become stronger, healthier and more confident.
The teenager spoke openly about the importance of exercise for mental wellbeing. She explained that even when she has a difficult day, she knows she can find a positive outlet by stepping into the gym for a good workout or, as she jokingly told the children, by “taking it out” on her punchbag in the boxing gym. Her honest and relatable message resonated with pupils of all ages.
Following the amber flag ceremony, she visited the various classrooms in the school, reconnecting with many of the teachers and SNAs who had taught, supported and inspired during her own years in Scoil Mhuire gan Smál.
She praised the wide range of sporting opportunities available in Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, including boxing, Gaelic football, camogie, hurling, athletics, chess, soccer, rugby, basketball, gymnastics, yoga and sport for all.
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She reflected on how she was always encouraged both at school and at home to try everything, to believe in herself and to embrace every opportunity that came her way. She credited this support and encouragement with helping her to pursue her dreams and achieve success in the boxing ring.
Roisín Hegarty with aspiring members of Letterkenny Boxing Club
The message to the children was clear: believe in yourself, work hard, look after your physical and mental health, and never be afraid to chase your dreams.
A spokesperson for the school said: “We are immensely proud of Roisin and all that she has achieved. She is a wonderful ambassador for her family, her club, her county and her former school. We know that this is only the beginning of an exciting journey, and everyone in Scoil Mhuire gan Smál will be proudly following her achievements for many years to come.”