Outstanding award for Principal

ONE of the county’s best-known secondary school principals is being celebrated by a national teachers’ organisation for what it describes as his ‘outstanding contribution’ to the development of Gaelic Football outside and inside schools.

John Mulvihill – principal of St Michael’s College in Listowel and an All-Ireland football medal holder at minor, under-21 and senior level – was awarded the 2017 ASTI Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution the football in his school and community in recent decades.

John was one of just two teachers to receive the award at a gala ceremony in Dublin on Friday, and his honour came to the delight of all in St Michael’s, Listowel and beyond.

“In his community John helped establish the North Kerry School of Excellence to prepare young players to represent Kerry at minor level. The ASTI Achievement Awards are presented annually to honour teachers who not only play an important professional role in their schools, but whose talent, commitment and determination enables them and/or their students to excel in areas such as sport, literature and music,” the ASTI said.

General Secretary Kieran Christie presented it saying: “Look at any GAA club, soccer club, drama group, charity, political party or any community-based activity and you will find teachers. Achievement Award winners are exceptional people who have made a significant contribution to their schools, their communities and to society.”

St Michael’s Principal John Mulvihill (centre) receiving his award for an outstanding contribution to Gaelic Football inside school and out - from ASTI President Ed Byrne and General Secretary Kieran Christie.