St Mary’s College student Patrick Fu has been presented with the Sky Sports Living for Sport Student of the Year for Republic of Ireland award by Sky Academy Ambassador and Olympic gold medallist Katie Taylor.
The Dundalk pupil was surprised by Katie during what he thought was a boxing masterclass with Sky Sports Boxing’s Johnny Nelson, but Sky were really there to capture the surprise, which was broadcast on Sky Sports News.
Patrick, 15, is one of thousands of secondary school pupils participating in Sky Sports Living for Sport projects throughout the UK and Ireland. The free Sky Academy initiative, delivered in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust, uses sport to help young people build practical skills and self-confidence. The annual awards recognise and reward the success of students and teachers.
Patrick was nominated to take part in Sky Sports Living for Sport because he was struggling with some aspects of school life. During the project Patrick went on a life-changing journey with his attendance improving and becoming fully engaged in class.
His confidence has grown and he now has clear goals and ambition, believing he can change and achieve his dreams. He is also now part of the Student Council. Sky Academy Ambassador Katie Taylor said, “Patrick’s shown incredible improvement since becoming involved in Sky Sports Living for Sport, it’s really rewarding to see such progress. The projects run by St Mary’s College are the perfect way to inspire students to sporting and academic success.”
Inline skating champion Jenna Downing was St Mary’s College’s Athlete Mentor throughout their project, and she was delighted that Patrick was chosen as the Sky Sports Living for Sport Student of the Year for Republic of Ireland: “It was a pleasure to meet and work with Patrick as part of the Sky Sports Living for Sport programme. Through a brilliant judo project at St Mary’s College Patrick has improved in confidence and is now fully engaged within school.
“I had a fantastic couple of visits working with Patrick and as his Athlete Mentor. I am so proud to hear that Patrick is now a member of the College’s student council. Well done Patrick, your success is truly deserved!”
See a video of the moment Katie Taylor surprised Patrick with his award here
