On 24th January a Sky Academy day was hosted at the new National Indoor Arena in Dublin, and led by Gordon D’Arcy, a former Irish Rugby player, who’s career highlights include winning three Heineken cups and two six nations titles. The 300 students who attended spent the day developing practical skills and confidence through a range of sporting activities – including everything from camogie to kickboxing.  

Irish Sky Academy Ambassador, Katie Taylor, sent a video message on the day telling the students to, “have fun and make sure you continue to believe in yourselves as I believe in you”.

The 15 secondary schools were from across Ireland and won thier invite to the day through an Irish Sky Sports Living for Sport competition, with Katie Taylor inviting her old secondary school, St Kilian’s Community School, to take part in the fun.

Speaking at the day, Gordon D’Arcy said: “I am very excited to be part of the fantastic Sky Academy Day. Participating in sport can help people with their confidence and building strong social relationships. You can see with the 300 students here today how being part of Sky Sports Living for Sport has inspired them to be the very best they can be”

The day was supported by Sky Academy Ambassador, Darren Campbell, 19 Sky Sports Living for Sport Athlete Mentors for Ireland and the UK, and over 20 Sky Staff volunteers.

Sky Sports Living for Sport is an initiative run in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust and part of Sky Academy - Sky Academy unlocks potential in young people, from primary school right through to those starting their career, by building their experience and skills, such as confidence and creativity.  Find out more sky.com/academy.