Much to the delight of Antrim Gaels, the 5 Star Centres Programme has been an unmitigated success. Initially rolled out to 16 schools, such is the strength of the programme that second phase will include 87 schools.“It really lifts the spirits”, said Antrim GAA Ambassador Anto Finnegan, speaking at St Mary's University.“They've made a really strong start to the programme.”He added: “If things don’t start well, you could fall on your own sword. But we have a really strong team who have made a really strong start.”Antrim Chairperson Ciaran McCavana echoed these sentiments and praised the efforts of all the schools and staff and teachers who were the driving force behind the programme. For McCavana, it is vital to not only increase participation, but to ensure that children are "loving the GAA", which is happening thought the 5 Star Centres Programme. McCavana also said it this was a "tangible good news story" within a county that is hurt by factors beyond their control."We can focus on if we are going to get planning for Casement and being in division four," said McCavana, "but the reality is, this is a tangible good news story that we have been able to implement without any outside interference."
