All-Ireland silver for Kilrush hip-hop group

THE Clare Youth Service-run Kilrush youth project hip-hop group, Unique Geeks from the John Paul Estate, finished second at last weekend’s Youth Work Ireland National Games Finals at University of Limerick.
The group represented Clare for the third year in a row at the national event. They finished in third place in 2009 and were runners-up last year.  They were determined to go one better this year but had to be content with a second-place finish again.
The hip-hop group members include seven girls aged between 13 and 18, from the John Paul Estate, Kilrush and the wider West Clare community. The core members of the group have been dancing together for over four years under the guidance of dance teacher, Laura Jane Allis, of the Breakthrough Dance Company, Ennis.
“This year’s routine was very different from what the group is used to,” Laura explained. “The dance theme was quite challenging this year and the group worked even harder for this year’s finals,” she added.
Laura has been travelling to Kilrush to teach the dancers for the past four years and has been with them from day one. She has seen their confidence blossom and is very proud of the group’s achievements. 
The Kilrush Youth Project was established by the Clare Youth Service and has been operating in the John Paul Estate for over eight years. Full-time Clare Youth Service youth worker Louise McMahon has developed the project on the ground, along with part-time youth worker, Shane Mulvey. 
“We work with all teenagers between the ages of 12 and 19 from the John Paul Estate,” Louise explained. “We set up different activities and programmes designed to meet the needs of the young people both on an individual and small group basis. A taste of some of the programmes we have run this year include hip-hop, art and soccer. We also provide a chill-out space for groups of young people on an ongoing weekly basis on the estate.  There is also a drop-in facility at specific times where young people can pop in to access specific information and have informal chats,” Louise added.
Hip-hop interest has significantly increased among the younger children in both the John Paul Estate and the wider community due to the successes of this particular group. 
“The buzz around the estate amongst family and friends leading up to the event was great to see,” Louise said.
The group intend to participate in a number of local events and festivals taking place throughout the summer to showcase their winning routine and talent. Plans are already underway for next year’s event.