Paralympic silver medalist Nicole Turner and the Portarlington senior footballers were the guests of honour in a Laois school on Monday.
Colaiste Iosagain in Portarlington were treated to a visit from sporting stars who have made immense contributions to the town in recent weeks.
Last month, Martin Murphy’s Portarlington footballers brought the Jack Delaney Cup back for the first time since 2001.
He along with players Jake Foster and Padraig Coffey – plus teacher Keith Bracken and student Darragh Slevin – were all present.
Manager Murphy spoke about the hard work involved and the pride that results from winning a county title.
He said every student sitting in front of him is capable of winning a title and encouraged all students to get involved in helping to continue the glory days in Portarlington.
Nicole Turner, who was previously a student in the school, explained to students all the sacrifices that it took to win a medal – including 4am starts at the weekends but how it was all worthwhile.
She intends taking a well deserved break and reinforced the message that if you want success, you must work hard.
The school made a presentation to Nicole and her mam Bernie.
She then went on a tour of the school with teacher Keith Bracken, who is the Portarlington captain of the school.
Nicole met her old teachers and fellow students who were all very proud and delighted to have such a superstar in the school.
Check out some great pictures from Frank Smith of the visit below:
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