Showcase 2010/2011

Thomas Conway

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Wilson Lumumba

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Ciaran Kelly

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Eoghain Dunne

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Merveil Mavungu

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Eric Donegan

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Stephen O'Brien

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Malik Ogungbo

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John Kearns

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February Showcase

Eric Donegan 6th Year

I joined the St.Johns Ambulance back in 2006 in Ballyfermot. I learned about it
from a neighbour and I joined shortly after. Many people came and went during
my first few years and soon I was considered senior in the Cadet division of the
Ambulance. In 2009 I was made a Lance Corporal by the Cadet Leader at the
time and in the same year was voted Cadet of the Year by other members.

In the St. Johns Ambulance there are many advantages; for example, I was able
to get into the Heineken Cup Semi-Final between Munster and Leinster (for free).
We also get to go on trips to Cork annually and camp during the summer in
different places ever year. We go to Cork for what is considered one of the
biggest competitions of the year, However I have only ever came in 3rd place
in that competition. On camp there are usually two divisions where you can meet
people of your own age who have a common interest to yourself.

Another one of my hobbies is Akido. It's a Japanese martial art based on samurai
techniques from ancient times. I have been in the club since before the summer
of 2010 but I had to leave for a few months due to a football injury which set
my progress back a few pegs, but I came back following the summer and found
some new faces in the over-18's Martial Arts club. In my first month back I was
invited to take part in a seminar between four different clubs: one from Dublin
(Tallaght) , Northern Ireland , Donegal and England. I met some very high Grading
Dans (Black Belts) who gave me different insights into Akido, I am currently doing
my yellow belt syllabus which involves five techniques and foot and hand
movements. This Martial Art is difficult to take a grasp of but is very rewarding
when you get things right.

I would recommend Martial Arts to anyone who is lacking a bit of confidence
or self-esteem as you will have no trouble gaining confidence once you plant
your instructor for the first time. I would also recommend First-Aid to anybody
interested in making friends and learning how to look after any injury.