Cuala’s Sports & Social Integration Programme (SSIP) is a joint initiative between Cuala and the Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Educational Training Board (ETB), formerly Co. Dublin & Dún Laoghaire VECs.

The Project is managed by Damian Byrne under the direction of a Steering Committee comprised of local School Principals and Community Leaders. The former Dublin keeper is the holder of 3 Senior Championship medals, and his many achievements include Dublin Hurler of the year, winner of 3 Dublin Bluestars awards and admission to the Dublin Hall of Fame. He also brings a wealth of professional experience to the programme being a GAA Coaching Tutor and the holder of Diplomas in Sports Management and Addiction Studies.

SSIP Objectives

  • 1. Provide

    To provide opportunities for Young people to socialise with peers from different socio-economic backgrounds.

  • 2. Focus

    To focus on children not already involved in sport.

  • 3. Provide

    To provide a community orientated sports programme based on Cuala’s management structures in collaboration with local schools colleges and community/youth services.

  • 4. Maximise

    To maximise the number of boys and girls in sport and related activities in the target areas.

  • 5. Introduce

    To introduce and build relationships with locally based positive role models (players, coaches, leaders, administrators etc.) for younger people.

  • 6. Provide

    To provide leadership training and personal development skills for older children (13-18)

  • 7. Integrate

    To integrate an anti-drug and anti-crime theme into everyday activities.

SSIP Programmes

Cuala runs an extensive series of programmes within the SSIP project including:

  • School Coaching Blocks

  • After School Leagues

  • Health & Wellbeing Talks

  • Impact of Alcohol Advertisement In Sport

  • Trips

  • Outreach Work

  • After-School Clubs

  • Seasonal Sports Camps

  • Cuala TY

  • Tús / Fás Placements

  • TY Coaching Course

  • Parents Coaching Course

  • Social Inclusion Programme

  • Social, TY & special work placements

  • Superstars Tournaments

SSIP Resources

While many of the projects are supported using Cuala infrastructure and resources, the SSIP is funded by the UBU – Your Place Your space.

If you feel that the Project can be of assistance or support to any individual or group, or if you believe you can help the project in any way, please contact Damian Byrne on 086 6040998 or at cualassip@gmail.com

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