TwoMacs Podcast

TwoMacs Podcast Ep62 Amy Toner & Shane McDonald

Ronan McSherry & Martin McGuinness Season 1 Episode 62

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0:00 | 1:01:46

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Amy Toner & Shane McDonald - promoting inclusively for all children. 

A hugely inspiring and uplifting chat with Amy Toner and Shane McDonald, aka MacDoodle, who are doing fantastic work with young people making sure that none get left out or left behind. 

With a name like MacDoodle, this podcast veers down a few side roads as we wonder why girls don't get nicknames! We also remember the great player Amy's husband Brian was and the nicknames of a few of his team-mates! 

It was Amy who started the Fianna All Stars when it became apparent that her daughter Maisie loved football, but was unable to participate in a traditional childrens' team because she has 'additional needs.' 
 
The group has taken off, giving lots of children great joy under the guidance of their parents and specially trained coaches.
It is a wonderful innovation with the joy, as well as the mental and physical health benefits it brings. 
The kids love the games and making friends as well as going on trips to Clones, Croke Park and to other clubs. 

Shane, a Leader at the local youth club Ógras, as well as the Welfare Officer with Coalisland Fianna and Chairman of the Fianna Runners, talks about his work with local young people, that also encompasses those with 'additional needs'. 

The Fianna Runners has chosen the Fianna All Stars as their nominated charity this year.

Plans are in place for a sensory garden at the club. The local community has been generous with a playpark among the donations.

Amy and Brian are part of the Fianna Runners group while Amy also reveals that while she didn't play football, she is a kickboxing black belt! 

Amy and Shane with others involved in the local groups are adding so much to the lives of our children. There is a place for every child... inclusively the key word.

Local people, they talk also about their families and there is a poignant poem penned 88 years ago that links the Main Street of Coalisland ancestors of Amy, RonanMac and our production manager Oliver. 

A feelgood podcast and good fun!

* Anyone is welcome to bring their child to the Fianna All Stars, and join the Fianna Runners, regardless of their background or club affiliation, if they have one.