Eamonn Wall (b. 1940), lecturer In Biochemical Science and Medical Laboratory Science (part 2)

In this recording with Eamonn Wall, the focus is on his involvement in the GAA at the CIT campus. Ever since his arrival at the RTC he had an involvement in hurling and football, which played a central role in the students’ development. He speaks about the successful staff football team, and about the history of the Sigerson (football) and Fitzgibbon (hurling) Cups, as well as the Ashbourne Cup for camogie. He himself was involved, from the early days, in organising the football teams. Fulltime sports officers and coaches are now in place for more than ten years who bring their skills and abilities to the organisation and development of games to CIT. When RTC Cork first opened its fledgling campus, sports facilities were not a priority as they consisted of two tennis courts and an all weather hockey pitch. Through the far sighted and enlightened efforts of the former Director Dr Pat Kelleher and former Registrar Brendan Goggin, lands were purchased which allowed for the development of the modern facilities now available for all sports activities. Eamonn Wall discusses the bonding between the students and the staff, and strongly feels that sport pulls people together. He also speaks of the breaking down of barriers between the Institutes of Technology and Universities, due to the establishment of new structures for GAA games in higher education.