In memory of Aodhán Gillen

Friday saw a day of mixed emotions, where memories of Aodhán Gillen's life surged forth, filling our hearts with warmth and reflection. Pope Francis reminds us that, “Life's worth is measured by love,” and the love showered upon Aodhán was immeasurable, transcending earthly bounds. Our fantastic hosts, in Edmund Rice College, were determined to reciprocate the warmth that Aodhán bestowed upon his spectators.
Simultaneously, the P6 boys' and girls' tournaments unfolded, with esteemed schools like Holy Cross Boys, Glengormley IPS, St. Mary's on the Hill and our own. It was a day destined to be imprinted in memory. The clash between our valiant P6 boys’ team and the towering, robust team from St. Mary's on the Hill was a sight to behold. Though our hearts were heavy with sorrow at the game's end, the brilliance displayed by our boys on the football field was undeniable. Meanwhile, as the sun emerged from behind the clouds, Aodhán's presence reverberated, igniting the spirit of his gifted young sister, who courageously led her team to a triumphant first-round victory against Glengormley IPS.
Alas, our Strikers were not as fortunate, falling to the formidable St. Mary's girls' team. Every blade of grass seemed covered, and every girl poured her heart and soul into the battle. Yet, our boys’ and girls’ teams rallied together, emerging victorious in their respective 3rd place playoffs, both coincidentally defeating P6 Glengormley IPS.
The crowning glory of the day arrived in a nerve-wracking finale. We, forever proud of our children at St. Bernard's, were now propelled to a newfound pinnacle of pride. As the girls come together, forging a bond that transcends individuality, their collective spirit knew no bounds. Witnessing their unwavering support for one another is a true testament to the character we instil at our school. In this harmonious symphony of determination, when one team emerges victorious, the celebration resonates through every fibre of their being, the essence of victory is shared by all.  With the Gillen family as witnesses, Aodhán's spirit lingered, manifesting on his hallowed grounds. Substitutions were but a distant dream, and our valiant girls, breathing their very last breaths, fought for every inch of the sacred pitch, yearning for a fleeting moment of greatness. Normal time could not separate the two schools which forced the already twisting final into penalties.
Mr. Gillen had confided that he beseeched the heavens during Novena, fervently praying for his daughter's team's triumph. And as the aura of Aodhán enveloped the green expanse, Corin Gillen, magnificent in the maroon, hoisted the trophy aloft for her beloved brother.