St Benedict's School opens new multi-use Games Area

Published on isbi School News dated Tuesday 19th of April 2011

St Benedict's School officially opened 'The Andre Abramian Memorial Pitch' on Thursday 10th March at the school playing fields in Perivale. This international size Astroturf pitch will extend the sporting options for boys and girls to include hockey alongside the netball and tennis already on offer.

This new multi use games area has been named in memory of Andre Abramian, who died on 29th October 2010. Andre was a real Benny Boy, a pupil at the School from the age of four until his sad death. He showed great courage in his battle with cancer, never giving up hope nor accepting defeat, and was a constant inspiration to all those around him.

Headmaster, Chris Cleugh thanked everyone involved from start to finish on this successful project. In his opening address he said 'It is a great honour to dedicate these facilities in memory of Andre. He has found his place in the heart of St Benedict's, and may he continue to live on in the memories of this great Old Priorians' Association.' After a blessing ceremony performed by Father Abbot Martin Shipperlee, Andre's parents, Armand and Aline, and his sister Tamar unveiled the memorial plaque to officially open 'The Andre Abramian Memorial Pitch.'

Director of Sport, Nick Guise has seen a dream come true. 'These are wonderful facilities which will allow us to maintain our high standards whilst diversifying the sporting opportunities provided at St Benedict's. We aim to maximise the athletic potential of boys and girls.'

On Thursday 24th March both the Under 12 and Under 13 Girls' hockey teams recorded their first ever victories, winning against St Catherine's School 2-0 and 7-2 respectively.